Notes on International Relations and Conflicts

Flashcards covering key concepts and events in international relations and conflicts, focusing on the 19th and 20th centuries.

What was the main cause of the Boxer Rising in China between 1899 and 1901?

The Boxer Rising was primarily a response to foreign imperialism, especially Anti-Christian sentiment and the negative effects of 'unequal treaties' imposed on China.

What was the outcome of the Sino-Japanese war in 1894 for China?

Japan acquired four treaty ports from China as a result of its victory.

How did Germany's economic growth challenge British dominance in the late 19th century?

Germany's rapid economic growth after unification allowed it to compete directly with British economic expansion in Africa and the Far East.

To what extent did the Genoa Conference improve international relations?

The Genoa Conference failed to improve international relations due to disagreements among major powers and the withdrawal of Russia and Germany from the conference.

What were some successes of the League of Nations in the 1920s?

The League successfully repatriated half a million POWs, resolved border disputes like Aaland Islands, and provided aid to Turkish refugees.

Why did Hitler seek Anschluss with Austria?

Hitler's aim was to further challenge the Treaty of Versailles, extend the Third Reich, and pressure other German populations to integrate into Germany.

What was the significance of the Kellogg-Briand Pact in 1928?

The Kellogg-Briand Pact, signed by 65 countries, aimed to end war but was ultimately ignored.

What factor kept the US from involvement in WWI initially?

US public opinion was largely against involvement in war, which was supported by President Wilson.

How did the Treaty of Versailles affect Germany's post-war situation?

Many Germans viewed the Treaty as a Diktat due to the war guilt clause, lack of participation in negotiations, and severe reparations.

What was the impact of the Nazi-Soviet Pact on the outbreak of WWII?

The Nazi-Soviet Pact allowed Hitler to invade Poland without fear of Soviet interference, precipitating the outbreak of WWII.

What influence did the Boxer Rebellion have on US foreign policy?

The US joined other powers in suppressing the Boxer Rebellion to ensure access to the Chinese market and uphold the Open Door Policy.

What was a significant failure of the League of Nations regarding Manchuria in 1931?

The League's ineffectiveness in resolving the Manchurian Crisis demonstrated its inability to enforce collective security.

What led to the strengthening of the Chinese Communist Party during the war against Japan?

The CCP gained support through successful guerrilla tactics and positioned themselves as defenders of China against Japanese aggression.

What were some immediate causes of the 1898 war between the USA and Spain?

The sinking of the USS Maine, public sympathy for Cuban rebels, and Spanish atrocities contributed to US intervention.

How did the 1925 Locarno Pact affect German borders?

The Locarno Pact confirmed Germany's western borders but provided no guarantees for its eastern borders, leading to future tensions.

What were the implications of the Washington Naval Conference for international naval power dynamics?

The conference established naval limitations among signatory powers but also led to dissatisfaction, particularly from Japan, resurging tensions when the pact faltered.