The Inter-War Years

Treaty of Versailles

Signed on June 28, 1919, it held Germany (and Austria) responsible for WWI, imposing reparations and military restrictions.

Dawes Plan

Introduced in August 1924, it aimed to reduce German reparations, provide a loan for recovery, and use American loans to pay war reparations.

Treaty of Locarno

A 1925 political settlement guaranteeing Germany's borders with Belgium and France, promoting stability in Europe.

Great Depression

A period of economic crisis from roughly 1929 to 1933, marked by a stock market crash, low business activity, and high unemployment rates.

Totalitarian States

Dictatorial regimes like Fascism, characterized by centralized control over political, social, and cultural aspects of citizens' lives.

New Deal

Introduced by F. D. Roosevelt in the U.S., it included public works programs, social security, and unemployment insurance to combat the Great Depression.

Joseph Stalin

Gained control of the Communist Party in 1927, initiated the Five Year Plans to industrialize Russia, leading to increased production but harsh living conditions.

Adolf Hitler

Rose to power in Germany through the Nazi Party, becoming Chancellor in 1933 and establishing a totalitarian state, purging opposition and consolidating power.

Francisco Franco

Led a military revolt in Spain in 1936, supported by Germany and Italy, establishing a dictatorship that lasted until 1975.

Benito Mussolini

Founded the Fascist Party in Italy, becoming Prime Minister in 1925, ruling as Il Duce, and establishing a totalitarian regime with control over media and propaganda.