Comparison: WWII referred to similarly as a sequel, like "The Terminator" movie, indicating the initial belief that WWI was "the war to end all wars."
Treat of Versailles: A Catalyst
Overview: The Treaty of Versailles ended WWI but was harsh and punitive, especially towards Germany and Italy, sowing seeds of discontent.
Italy: Disappointed for not receiving promised lands, leading to dissatisfaction.
Before WWI: Allied with Germany.
After WWI: Switched sides for promised lands, which were not given.
Germany: Faced severe reparations, demilitarization, and the "war guilt" clause, causing economic turmoil and national humiliation.
Imperialist Expansion
Japan: Expanded into China and Pacific islands, challenging the League of Nations.
Italy: Invaded Ethiopia and consolidated an empire in Africa after being denied territorial gains post-WWI.
Germany: Under Hitler, reclaimed territories and sought "Lebensraum" (living space), violating Versailles Treaty terms.
Economic Crisis
Great Depression: Worldwide economic downturn, creating fertile ground for authoritarian regimes.
Rise of Totalitarian Regimes
Soviet Union: Transition to communism under Lenin, followed by Stalin's dictatorship aiming for global communism.
Italy: Rise of fascism under Mussolini, focusing on nationalism, authoritarian leadership, and militarism.
Policies: Lowered living standards but provided social security and public services.
Germany: Nazi Party under Hitler promoted ultra-nationalism, identifying socialists, communists, and Jews as enemies.
Hitler's Plans: End reparations, remilitarize, acquire "Lebensraum," and eliminate "impure" races, especially targeting Jews.
The concatenation of these factors spiraled into the outbreak of WWII, illustrating how intertwined political, economic, and ideological causes led to the conflict.