WW2 Modern History II

What was the Anschluss?

The political union (Anschluss) of Austria and Germany.

What was appeasement?

The policy by Britain (Chamberlain) and France (Daladier) to avoid war with Hitler by giving him what he wanted, specifically more land.

What is carpet bombing?

Carpet bombing involves bombing civilian targets to cover large areas, aimed at breaking the enemy's morale.

What impact did the economic global crisis have on fascism?

Economic instability made fascism more popular, as it appeared stable and new compared to the failing old systems.

Who was Francisco Franco?

The fascist ruler of Spain during the war, leading the nationalists in a coup against the government.

How did Hitler rise to power?

Hitler gained power legitimately, becoming chancellor after the Reichstag fire, promising to help in exchange for power.

What is Lebensraum?

The ideology of 'living space' that justified German expansion, allowing Aryans to settle and farm in new lands.

What was the Munich Conference?

A meeting where Hitler and Mussolini discussed German expansion, resulting in the ceding of territories to Germany.

What was the significance of the Battle of Britain?

The critical air campaign in which the German Luftwaffe attempted to gain air superiority over Britain but was ultimately unsuccessful.

What was Operation Barbarossa?

Hitler's invasion of the Soviet Union, breaking the peace agreement and starting with the attack on the Russian half of Poland.

What was the Siege of Leningrad?

A prolonged military blockade by Germany that cut off supplies to the city, significant for its impact on the war and civilian suffering.

What occurred during the Siege of Stalingrad?

A major battle where the Soviets won, marking the end of Hitler's advance and turning the tide of the war.

What was Operation Overlord?

The Allied invasion of Normandy (D-Day), a crucial operation that marked the beginning of the liberation of Western Europe.

What was the purpose of the convoy system?

To protect Atlantic ships carrying supplies and goods from trade by escorting them with battleships and submarines.

What happened in the invasion of Italy?

Allied forces invaded southern Italy, leading to Mussolini's arrest, while Hitler made him a puppet ruler in the north.

What was the impact of the Battle of the Bulge?

The last major German offensive that created a bulge in the Allies' line of defense.