IWWG - The Events Leading Up to WWII (Lesson)

The Events Leading Up to WWII 

Introduction

Fascism, a political philosophy in which total power belongs to a dictator and individual freedoms do not exist, rapidly gained popularity in Europe. The political instability and economic collapse in Europe caused by World War One was followed by the economic depression, high inflation, and unemployment. Three key dictators rose to power during these years and developed an alliance that became known as the Axis Powers: Adolf Hitler (Germany), Benito Mussolini (Italy), and Hideki Tojo (Japan). 

 

Important People, Terms, and Events

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Where the War was Fought

 

WWII

 

 

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Review

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World War II began with Germany expanding territory in Europe, Italy invading Africa, and Japan raiding the Pacific Islands. The United States remained neutral until the Japanese forced them to take action after the brutal attack at Pearl Harbor. The United States suffered greatly during the Great Depression. The economic boom that war production brought allowed manufacturing to begin to prosper. Citizens went back to work and wages grew. The United States became a powerful economic force. Upon entering the war, men left for military training and women stepped up on the manufacturing front at home. World War II devastated Europe and the Pacific, but the United States saw prosperity again and helped successfully end the war in both Europe and the Pacific fronts. 

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