Causes of WWII: Treaty of Versailles & Great Depression

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Questions and Answers

How did the Treaty of Versailles contribute to the rise of extreme political parties in Germany?

By ensuring long-term economic stability and preventing hyperinflation.
By promoting international cooperation and trust, decreasing nationalism.
By limiting the power of the German government promoting democracy.
By fostering a sense of national humiliation and resentment among the German population that was capitalized on by parties like the Nazis. (correct)

What was the primary purpose of the League of Nations, and why did it ultimately fail to prevent World War II?

To spread democratic ideals, but authoritarian regimes refused to cooperate and eventually withdrew from the organization.
To promote free trade, but members prioritized their own economic interests when the Great Depression hit.
To establish military alliances, but it lacked the power to enforce its decisions and was undermined by nations pursuing their own agendas.
To maintain peace and prevent war, but it lacked the authority and means to effectively address aggressive actions by nations like Germany and Japan. (correct)

In what ways did the Great Depression exacerbate the conditions that led to World War II?

By weakening democratic governments and creating opportunities for extremist movements to gain power by capitalizing on economic hardship and social unrest. (correct)
By encouraging the growth of moderate political parties that favored diplomacy and compromise.
By fostering global economic cooperation and reducing international tensions.
By leading to increased military spending and a focus on rearmament, but only in countries that were already authoritarian.

How did hyperinflation in Germany during the Great Depression contribute to the rise of the Nazi Party?

By destroying the savings of the middle class and creating widespread economic desperation, which the Nazis exploited by promising economic recovery and national renewal. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What was the impact of the White Australia Policy on Australia's decision to join World War II?

It fostered a strong sense of loyalty to Britain, as most migrants were of British descent, influencing Australia to support Britain against Nazi Germany. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Besides loyalty to Britain and the threat from Japan, what other factor motivated Australians to enlist in World War II?

The promise of economic opportunities, paid employment, and the chance to travel, especially following the Great Depression. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How did the fall of France in 1940 influence Australia's perspective on World War II?

It heightened Australia's sense of urgency and vulnerability, leading to increased recruitment rates, because the war seemed even more dire and close to home. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What immediate action did the Australian government take at the start of World War II, reflecting its commitment to the British war effort?

Promising to send 20,000 soldiers to support British war efforts, quickly forming the Second Australian Imperial Force. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How did Australia's military preparedness in 1939 influence its initial response to World War II?

Australia's small army and outdated weapons meant it initially focused on voluntary enlistment and rearmament, changing its perspective after the fall of France. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the long-term impact of the Treaty of Versailles, the Great Depression, and the failure of the League of Nations on the outbreak of World War II?

They created an environment of instability, resentment, and economic hardship that extremist movements exploited to gain power and undermine international cooperation. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Treaty of Versailles

A treaty that imposed harsh penalties on Germany after WW1, including territorial losses, military restrictions, and accepting full responsibility for the war.

League of Nations

An international organization established to maintain peace and prevent war, but ultimately failed to prevent WW2.

The Great Depression (1929)

A severe worldwide economic downturn in the 1930s, leading to unemployment, poverty, and political instability.