The Great Depression and World War II

Flashcards about the Great Depression and its impact on World War II.

Great Depression

A severe worldwide economic downturn that began in 1929 and lasted until about 1939, leading to fundamental changes in economies.

Political Impact of Great Depression

Economic instability created by the Great Depression led to political instability, giving rise to dictatorial regimes like Adolf Hitler's in Germany.

Economic Effects of Great Depression

Businesses cutting production, banks failing, and high unemployment rates characterized the economic hardship during the Great Depression.

Pearl Harbor

The Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor in December 1941 prompted the United States to declare war on Japan, leading to U.S. involvement in World War II.

Impact of WWII on US Economy

The U.S. entry into World War II helped stimulate the nation's economy and recover from the depression.

Rise of Militarist Regimes

Economic hardship and political instability fueled the rise of aggressive, militaristic regimes in Germany, Italy, and Japan.

Impact on Weimar Germany

The Great Depression created hard economic conditions in Weimar Germany, contributing to the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party.

Underlying Weaknesses in US Economy

Unequal distribution of wealth, problems in agriculture, and tariff wars were underlying weaknesses in the US economy that contributed to the Great Depression.

Impact of Stock Market Crash

The collapse of the stock market triggered the Great Depression, which is believed to be one of the reasons that caused World War II.