THE SECOND WORLD WAR

What were the main causes of the Second World War according to the lecture notes?

Dissatisfaction with the Treaty of Versailles, rise of Fascism and Nazism, policy of appeasement, Japanese invasion of China, failure of the League of Nations, and the invasion of Poland by Hitler.

What discontent arose from the Treaty of Versailles?

There was dissatisfaction in Germany and Italy due to harsh restrictions like war indemnity and military reductions.

What were the ideologies behind Fascism and Nazism?

Both believed in totalitarianism and opposed democracy; Fascism aimed at reviving the Roman Empire, while Nazism sought to restore Germany's prestige.

Define the policy of appeasement.

Accepting the hostile demands of an aggressive nation to gain peace, often by overlooking aggressiveness.

What actions did Britain and France take regarding German expansion?

They followed a policy of appeasement and took no action when Germany militarized the Rhineland or annexed Austria and Czechoslovakia.

What was the consequence of the League of Nations' inaction?

Small nations lost faith in the League and formed alliances for protection.

What was the immediate cause of the Second World War?

The invasion of Poland by Hitler on 1 September 1939.

What was Blitzkrieg?

A swift military tactic used by Germany, meaning 'lightning war'.

What was a significant event on 7 December 1941?

Japan launched a surprise aerial attack on the American naval fleet at Pearl Harbor.

What prompted the USA to enter the Second World War?

The attack on Pearl Harbor by Japan aroused American indignation.

What significant event occurred on 6 August 1945?

The first atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima by the USA.

What happened after the atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki?

Japan surrendered without conditions, bringing an end to the Second World War.

What were the major consequences of the Second World War for Germany?

Germany was divided into East and West Germany, each with different political systems.

What was the purpose of forming the United Nations?

To maintain international peace and security and prevent future wars.

Which countries entered independence after the Second World War?

Countries like India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, China, and Ghana became independent.

What ideological differences led to the Cold War?

The USA followed capitalism while the Soviet Union adhered to communism.

What was the Democratic and Capitalist Bloc?

A coalition led by the USA comprising countries that believed in liberal democracy.

What did the Communist Bloc oppose?

It criticized capitalist economies and argued that they served only the interests of the wealthy.

What is proxy warfare as mentioned in relation to the Cold War?

Conflict where two opposing countries support rival factions in another country, avoiding direct confrontation.

What were the consequences of the war on civilian populations?

Over 50 million people died, including civilians and about 12 million in concentration camps.