The Rise of Totalitarianism Flashcards

Flashcards covering the rise of totalitarianism, focusing on key figures and concepts.

Totalitarianism

A form of government in which the state has total control over all aspects of life.

Fascism

A political ideology that emphasizes nationalism and a strong central government, often led by a dictator.

Communism

A political and economic system in which the government owns and controls all resources and means of production, aiming for a classless society.

Joseph Stalin

Communist dictator of the Soviet Union (USSR) from 1929 to 1953, known for his use of secret police and the Great Purge.

The Great Purge

A period in the Soviet Union during the late 1930s, in which Joseph Stalin used his secret police to eliminate political opponents and other perceived enemies.

Adolf Hitler

Chancellor and Fascist leader of Germany from 1933 to 1945, known for extreme nationalism, anti-Semitism, and his role in World War II.

Third Reich

The Nazi regime in Germany from 1933 to 1945, under the rule of Adolf Hitler.

Benito Mussolini

Prime Minister and Fascist leader of Italy from 1925 to 1945, aimed to restore the glory of the Roman Empire.

Hirohito

Emperor of Japan from 1926 to 1989, a figurehead during Japan's expansion and involvement in World War II.

Hideki Tojo

General of Japan, who believed that the attack on Pearl Harbor would awaken a sleeping giant.

Militarism in Japan

The use of military force and agression by Japan to acquire raw materials through imperialism.

US Embargo on Japan

A ban on goods that the US imposed on Japan, due to Japan's imperialistic actions, after initially ignoring Japan.