WW2

Treaty of Versailles

Signed in 1919 after WW1; blamed Germany, imposed reparations, restricted military, lost territory.

The Big 3

Leaders of the main Allied Powers; Lloyd George (UK), Clemenceau (France), Wilson (USA).

Guilt Clause (Article 231)

Stated that Germany took full responsibility for WW1; justified harsh punishments.

Hyperinflation

Economic crisis in 1923 where prices skyrocketed, money became worthless, and people lost savings.

Appeasement

Policy of allowing Hitler to take territories to avoid war, ultimately failed and encouraged aggression.

League of Nations

Organization set up after WW1 to promote peace, but was weak due to lack of military power.

Anschluss

The annexation of Austria by Germany in 1938, which violated the Treaty of Versailles.

Invasion of Poland

On September 1, 1939, Germany invaded Poland, prompting UK and France to declare war.

Fall of Singapore

The 1942 British surrender to Japan, resulting in 15,000 Australian POWs and a loss of faith in Britain.

Japan's Expansion (1931–41)

Japan's invasions of Manchuria, China, Indochina, Philippines, and Malaysia due to resource scarcity.

Government Controls on Homefront

Included rationing, censorship of news, and internment of enemy nationals during WWII.

Consequences of Treaty of Versailles

Germany felt betrayed, leading to poverty, hyperinflation, and the rise of extremist parties like the Nazis.

Australia’s role at Peace Conference

PM Billy Hughes advocated for harsh punishment for Germany and control of German New Guinea.

Link: Treaty → Hyperinflation

Reparations caused Germany to print money, leading to a collapse in value and economic chaos.

Germany’s Alliances

Formed alliances with Italy (Mussolini) and Japan (Tojo); together known as the Axis Powers.

Evaluate cause of war in Pacific

Resource scarcity was most significant, causing Japan to invade other territories.

Criticism of Treaty by Hitler

Described it as a dictated peace, blamed Jews and communists, fueling nationalism in Germany.

Australia in Pacific Theatre

Involved in battles across New Guinea, Borneo, and the Solomon Islands, playing a key role against Japan.

Australia in Europe

Engaged in significant battles in North Africa and bombing raids over Germany during WWII.

Economic Crisis in Germany

Caused by reparations from the Treaty of Versailles, leading to hyperinflation and societal unrest.

Japan's Leader

Emperor Hirohito was a figurehead, while military generals like Tojo held real power.

Women’s Role on Homefront

Worked in factories and farms, contributing significantly to the war effort in Australia.

Censorship during the war

Controlled news and information to boost morale and limit negative reporting about the war.

Evaluate effect of hyperinflation

Led to wiped out savings, starvation, and the collapse of trust in democratic institutions.

Political instability in Germany

Resulted from the economic impact of the Treaty of Versailles, aiding the rise of Hitler.