1. Treaty of Versailles: Harsh conditions imposed on Germany following its defeat in World War I led to resentment and a desire for revenge.
2. Rise of Fascism: The rise of totalitarian regimes, particularly Nazi Germany, Italy, and Japan, promoted ultranationalism and sought territorial expansion.
3. Failure of the League of Nations: The ineffectiveness of the League of Nations in resolving conflicts and preventing aggression contributed to the outbreak of war.
4. Appeasement: The policy of appeasing aggressive powers, such as the Munich Agreement of 1938, emboldened Germany and encouraged further expansion.
5. Economic Depression: The global economic crisis of the 1930s weakened economies and led to political instability, making countries more vulnerable to the influence of extremist ideologies.
6. Militarization: Germany, Italy, and Japan engaged in massive military buildup and rearmament in violation of international agreements.
What Ended World War 2:
1. Allied Forces' Victory: The combined military power of the Allied forces, including the United States, the Soviet Union, and Great Britain, ultimately defeated the Axis powers.
2. Atomic Bombs: The use of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki by the United States in August 1945 hastened Japan's surrender.
3. Unconditional Surrender: Germany and Japan both surrendered unconditionally, leading to the end of the war.
4. Yalta and Potsdam Conferences: These wartime conferences among Allied leaders laid the foundation for the postwar world, including the division of Germany and establishment of the United Nations.
5. Nuremberg Trials: The trials of Nazi leaders for war crimes and crimes against humanity held after the war helped bring a measure of justice and accountability.