History WW2: Foreign Policy in the 1930s

Questions and Answers

What does appeasement mean?

The act of giving the opposing side in an argument or war an advantage that they have demanded, in order to prevent further disagreement.

Why did people want to appease Hitler?

Britain, France, and the United States wanted to avoid and prevent war from occurring, so they adopted the policy of appeasement.

Which of the following were reasons for appeasement? (Select all that apply)

Military limitations (correct)

Support for fascism

Fear of communism (correct)

Financial strains (correct)

What does pacifism mean?

The view that war is absolutely wrong and that people and governments should avoid war at all costs. Signup and view all the answers

What was the impact of the Treaty of Versailles on the appeasement policy?

There was a belief in Britain that the Treaty had been too harsh on Germany, leading to the idea that if these injustices were addressed, German aggression could be avoided. Signup and view all the answers

Why did some people argue against appeasement?

It was seen as a sign of weakness, strengthened Germany, alienated Stalin, and allowed an untrustworthy leader to expand. Signup and view all the answers

What was the dreadful impact of World War 1 on the policy of appeasement?

The massive psychological effect made leaders determined to prevent another breakdown of peace, influencing their decisions. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Appeasement Definition and Impact

Appeasement refers to conceding to the opposing side's demands to prevent conflict, particularly in the context of international relations.
This policy allowed Hitler to become increasingly aggressive, enhancing his confidence and territorial ambitions, which ultimately contributed to the start of World War II.
Britain’s policy of appeasement permitted Hitler to expand German territory during the 1930s without facing repercussions.

Reasons for Appeasement

Financial Strains: Britain and France prioritized internal welfare and lacked sufficient resources to engage in war, leading to a focus on economic stability over military action.
Military Limitations: Post-World War I military cuts left Britain unprepared for conflict, giving Germany a significant head start in rearmament.
Treaty of Versailles Sentiments: Many believed the Treaty was overly punitive toward Germany, fostering a desire to rectify these perceived injustices and prevent conflict.
Fear of Communism: Some viewed Nazi Germany as a bulwark against the spread of communism, favoring appeasement to maintain a strong relative power in Europe.
Public Opinion: Many in Britain felt that conflicts concerning Czechoslovakia were not worth the cost, especially considering the ethnic composition of the disputed regions.
Psychological Impact of WWI: The traumatic experiences from World War I instilled a strong aversion to conflict, leading to public and political reluctance to engage in military confrontations.

Opposition to Appeasement

Perceived Weakness: Critics argued that appeasement signified weakness, prompting more aggressive behavior from Hitler without facing consequences.
Strengthening Germany: The policy enabled Germany to gain crucial resources and territories, enhancing its military and economic power.
Alienation of Stalin: The failure to confront Hitler fostered disillusionment in the Soviet leader, who sought an alliance against Nazi expansion.
Distrust of Hitler: Awareness of Hitler’s long-term ambitions for Eastern Europe raised questions about the wisdom of allowing further territorial expansion.

Key Figures and Events

British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain was a prominent advocate for appeasement, avoiding military action in response to Hitler's early aggressions, such as the remilitarization of the Rhineland and the annexation of Austria.
Chamberlain, along with French Prime Minister Édouard Daladier, ultimately conceded control of the Sudetenland to Hitler, believing this would ensure peace in Europe.

Description

Explore the concept of appeasement in the context of World War II's foreign policy. This quiz includes key definitions and insights about how appeasement influenced Hitler's actions and contributed to the war's progression. Test your knowledge about this pivotal strategy of the 1930s.