1939

Definition

The year 1939 marks a critical turning point in global history, particularly as it relates to the onset of World War II. It is the year when Adolf Hitler's aggressive expansionist policies came to fruition with the invasion of Poland on September 1, leading Britain and France to declare war on Germany shortly thereafter. This event signified not only the beginning of widespread conflict across Europe but also set the stage for global military engagements and alliances that would shape the rest of the 20th century.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. On September 1, 1939, Germany invaded Poland using Blitzkrieg tactics, which combined fast-moving forces to overwhelm the enemy.
2. The invasion of Poland prompted Britain and France to declare war on Germany on September 3, 1939, officially marking the start of World War II.
3. This conflict would escalate into a global war involving over 30 countries and resulting in significant loss of life and widespread destruction.
4. The Munich Agreement of 1938 had failed to prevent war, as Hitler continued his expansionist policies despite promises made to European leaders.
5. The non-aggression pact between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union in August 1939 allowed for the division of Eastern Europe between the two powers.

Review Questions

• How did the events of 1939 illustrate the failures of appeasement in Europe?
  • The events of 1939 demonstrated the failures of appeasement as European leaders attempted to avoid conflict through concessions to Hitler. The Munich Agreement of 1938 allowed Hitler to annex parts of Czechoslovakia without facing any military consequences. However, when he invaded Poland in 1939, it became clear that such policies only emboldened him, leading directly to World War II. This marked a significant shift in European diplomacy where negotiations failed to contain aggression.
• Evaluate the impact of the invasion of Poland on the geopolitical landscape in Europe during World War II.
  • The invasion of Poland drastically altered the geopolitical landscape in Europe by drawing Britain and France into war against Nazi Germany. This event not only marked the beginning of widespread military conflict but also set off a chain reaction where other nations were forced to choose sides. The fall of Poland highlighted Germany's military might and led to further invasions across Europe, reshaping borders and alliances that would define warfare for years to come.
• Analyze how the events surrounding 1939 contributed to shaping modern international relations and conflicts.
  • The events surrounding 1939 had profound implications for modern international relations and conflicts. The failure of appeasement illustrated the limitations of diplomatic negotiations in addressing aggressive expansionist policies. The outbreak of World War II led to a realignment of global power dynamics, as nations formed new alliances based on shared interests rather than traditional empires. Additionally, the consequences of the war influenced post-war institutions like the United Nations, which were designed to prevent such conflicts in the future by promoting collective security and cooperation among nations.

Related terms

Nazi Germany:

The totalitarian regime established in Germany under Adolf Hitler, characterized by fascist policies and aggressive nationalism.

Blitzkrieg:

A military strategy employed by Germany that emphasized rapid attacks and quick victories through coordinated air and ground assaults.

Allied Powers:

The coalition of countries, including Britain, France, the Soviet Union, and later the United States, that opposed the Axis powers during World War II.