1.1 - Causes of World War II

Learning Intentions: Understand and outline the main causes of WWII. 

Success criteria:

• outline the main causes of WWII

• Research the main personalities that had a contributing fator to the outbreak of war

• complete an explanation of the causes of the war

Activity 1 - Copy the following into your books.

The origins of the Second World War (1939-45) may be traced back to the harsh peace settlement of the First World War (1914-18) and the economic crisis of the 1930s, while more immediate causes were the aggressive invasions of their neighbours by Germany, Italy, and Japan. A weak and divided Europe, an isolationist USA, and an opportunistic USSR were all intent on peace, but the policy of appeasement only delivered what everyone most feared: another long and terrible world war. 

Activity 2 - Setting the Scene (your teacher will print a copy of this for you) 

Before getting into the nitty gritty of World War II causes, it's important to understand the various political parties and the philosophies behind them. 

Using the internet, research the motivations of the key political figures that will play a leading role in the War to end all Wars. 

Extension: These tasks are for students who finish early or who would like to extend themselves.