topic 6 lessons 1-4

What economic conditions in Europe contributed to the rise of dictators after WWI?

Europe was in bad shape after WWI, facing a worldwide depression after 1929, particularly affecting Germany due to the Treaty of Versailles.

Who was the totalitarian leader of the Soviet Union and what were his main policies?

Joseph Stalin was the totalitarian leader in communist Russia, enforcing no rights, no private property, and government control over every aspect of life.

What was the Purge under Stalin and its consequences?

The Purge sought to eliminate all opposition, resulting in 8-13 million deaths, with Jews being hit hardest, while also making Russia an industrial power.

What was Benito Mussolini's role in Italy and what ideology did he promote?

Benito Mussolini, known as II Duce, promoted Fascism, which is characterized by extreme nationalism and limited freedoms, emerging from a weak economy and fear of communism.

What was the Weimar Republic and what challenges did it face in Germany?

The Weimar Republic was established after WWI but faced economic troubles that led to political turmoil.

What was the Nazi Party's main ideology under Adolf Hitler?

The Nazi Party promoted German ethnic solidarity, advocating for the unification of German-speaking people.

What significant book did Adolf Hitler write while in jail, and what was its focus?

Hitler wrote 'Mein Kampf,' which outlined his beliefs and blamed Jews for Germany's problems, promoting anti-Semitism.

What actions did Hitler take after becoming Chancellor of Germany in 1933?

Hitler gained unlimited power, established the Third Reich, combined fascism with racism, built up the military, and stopped reparation payments.

What was Japan's form of government during WWII and its imperialistic ambitions?

Japan had an imperialistic government led by military leaders who sought to expand into Asia for natural resources.

What was the significance of the Munich Pact and who was involved?

The Munich Pact, involving British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, allowed Hitler to take the Sudetenland as his 'last territorial demand,' representing appeasement.

What was Blitzkrieg and how did it affect the start of WWII?

Blitzkrieg, meaning 'lightning war,' involved striking hard and fast, which led to the quick invasion of Poland and the start of WWII.

What was the outcome of the Battle of Britain?

The RAF fought back against the Luftwaffe, using radar for better accuracy, forcing Hitler to postpone his plans to conquer Britain.

What were the Neutrality Acts and how did they affect U.S. involvement in WWII?

The Neutrality Acts aimed to keep the U.S. out of war by allowing trade with warring nations under 'cash and carry' terms.

What was the Lend-Lease Act and its purpose?

The Lend-Lease Act allowed the U.S. to lend or lease war supplies to any country vital to American defense.

What was the significance of the attack on Pearl Harbor?

The attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, aimed to wipe out the U.S. Pacific fleet, resulting in 2,403 American deaths and leading the U.S. to enter WWII.

What roles did women take on during WWII?

Women served in non-combatant positions in the Women's Army Corps (WAC) as nurses, ambulance drivers, radio operators, electricians, and pilots.

What was the Battle of Midway and its importance?

The Battle of Midway was a turning point in the war, where the U.S. broke Japanese codes and significantly weakened Japan's navy and air fleet.

What was the Atlantic Charter and who were the key figures involved?

The Atlantic Charter was a secret meeting between FDR and Churchill outlining war aims, including collective security and economic cooperation.

What was the Battle of Stalingrad and its significance in WWII?

The Battle of Stalingrad was a bloody conflict where Soviet troops cut off German supplies, marking a turning point as Hitler went on the defensive.

What was the role of the Tuskegee Airmen during WWII?

The Tuskegee Airmen were an all-black squadron that won distinguished unit citations for their bravery and contributions in the war.

What was the impact of the production miracle on the U.S. economy during WWII?

The production miracle led to major industries converting to war materials, officially ending the Great Depression as more workers were needed.

What was the significance of the German U-Boats in the Atlantic?

German U-Boats attacked U.S. ships, leading to an unofficial naval war, with the U.S. navy given permission to fire on submarines in self-defense.

What was the goal of Hideki Tojo as Japan's military leader?

Hideki Tojo aimed to unite all of East Asia by invading territories held by British, French, and Dutch powers.