World War II Study Guide: Causes and Major Events

What action did Italy take that contributed to the causes of World War II?

Italy invaded Ethiopia, and the League of Nations delayed action.

What was Japan's motivation for invading Manchuria?

Japan invaded Manchuria for raw materials and markets, while the League of Nations protested but did nothing.

What were the two opposing sides in the Spanish Civil War?

The Nationalists, led by Franco and supported by Hitler and Mussolini, versus the Popular Front, supported by the Soviet Union.

What were the main goals of the Nazi Party in Germany?

The Nazi Party aimed to undo the Treaty of Versailles, expand eastward, and destroy communism.

What territories did Germany expand into before World War II?

Germany expanded its military and territory into the Rhineland, Austria, and Sudetenland.

What was the significance of the Munich Conference in 1938?

At the Munich Conference, Britain and France attempted appeasement, but Germany invaded Czechoslovakia anyway.

What was the Nonaggression Pact of 1939?

The Nonaggression Pact was an agreement between Germany and the Soviet Union not to attack each other.

What was the League of Nations' role in the lead-up to World War II?

The League of Nations was weak and failed to act effectively against aggressor nations.

What was Britain's policy towards Germany before World War II?

Britain followed a policy of appeasement under Prime Minister Chamberlain.

What event marked the beginning of World War II?

Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939, leading Britain and France to declare war.

What major military actions did Germany take in Spring 1940?

Germany invaded Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France.

Who became the Prime Minister of Britain during World War II and what was his stance?

Winston Churchill became Prime Minister and refused to appease Germany.

What was the Battle of Britain?

The Battle of Britain was a 57-day bombing campaign where Britain resisted German attacks, aided by radar technology.

What was D-Day and its significance?

D-Day, or Operation Overlord, was the massive Allied invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944.

What was the Battle of the Bulge?

The Battle of the Bulge was the last major German offensive in World War II, leading to an Allied victory in Europe.

What does V-E Day signify?

V-E Day, or Victory in Europe Day, is celebrated on May 9, 1945, marking the defeat of Germany.

What tactic did the Soviets use against the German invasion in 1941?

The Soviets employed scorched-earth tactics during the German invasion.

What event brought the United States into World War II?

The attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, brought the U.S. into the war.

Who was the Allied Commander in Europe during World War II?

General Eisenhower served as the Allied Commander in Europe.

What were the key outcomes of the war in the Pacific?

The U.S. Pacific Commander was Douglas MacArthur, and the Battle of Midway was a turning point against Japan.

What were the consequences of World War II in terms of human loss?

World War II resulted in 50-80 million deaths worldwide and the defeat of Germany and the Axis Powers.

What was the significance of the atomic bombs dropped on Japan?

The atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki led to Japan's surrender, marking the end of World War II.