World War II Flashcards

Flashcards to review key events and concepts from World War II lecture notes.

Hitler's Goals

Hitler aimed to establish an 'Aryan racial state' by conquering the Soviet Union and enslaving Slavic people.

Response to Treaty Violations

Britain and France initially responded to Hitler's treaty violations with appeasement, influenced by the Great Depression and a desire to avoid conflict.

Appeasement

Appeasement is submitting to requests in order to set mutual standards and regulations.

Mussolini in Ethiopia

Mussolini's actions in Ethiopia reflected his imperial goals and disregard for other nations.

Rome-Berlin Axis & Anti-Comintern Pact

The Rome-Berlin Axis was an alliance between Italy and Germany, while the Anti-Comintern Pact was between Germany and Japan, both opposing communism.

Annexation of Austria

The annexation of Austria occurred after the Austrian chancellor was forced to put Austrian Nazis in charge.

Chamberlain's Appeasement Policy

Chamberlain's policy of appeasement was initially reasonable but ultimately backfired, leading to war.

Mukden Incident

The Mukden Incident was a staged attack on a Japanese railway used as a pretext for expansion.

Response to Japanese Aggression

The League of Nations disapproved of Japan's actions, leading Japan to leave the League and expand into Northern China; the U.S. responded with economic sanctions.

Japan's View of the U.S.

Japan viewed the United States as a threat due to economic sanctions affecting Japan's long-term goals in Asia.

Blitzkrieg

Blitzkrieg, meaning 'lightning war,' was a strategy of fast strikes with large armies and artillery, used to conquer Poland.

Failure of Soviet Invasion

Hitler's invasion of the Soviet Union failed due to underestimation of Soviet forces and the harsh winter conditions.

Resistance During Battle of Britain

British air forces effectively resisted and prevented Hitler’s invasion during the Battle of Britain.