World War II

Definition

World War II was a global conflict that lasted from 1939 to 1945, involving the majority of the world's nations, including all of the great powers, which eventually formed two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis. This war fundamentally reshaped international relations and influenced political ideologies and government structures across the globe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. World War II began on September 1, 1939, when Germany invaded Poland, prompting Britain and France to declare war.
2. The United States entered the war after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.
3. World War II resulted in an estimated 70-85 million casualties worldwide, making it one of the deadliest conflicts in human history.
4. The war concluded in Europe with Germany's unconditional surrender on May 7, 1945, and in Asia with Japan's surrender on September 2, 1945.
5. The aftermath of World War II led to the formation of the United Nations and a significant shift in global power dynamics, establishing the U.S. and Soviet Union as superpowers.

Review Questions

• How did World War II influence changes in ideology among nations involved in the conflict?
  • World War II brought significant ideological shifts, particularly in Europe and Asia. Fascism faced decline as countries like Germany and Italy were defeated. Conversely, communism gained traction, especially in Eastern Europe with the Soviet Union emerging as a dominant force. The conflict also led to increased advocacy for democracy and human rights globally, as nations reflected on the atrocities committed during the war.
• Evaluate how World War II affected the roles and powers of government institutions within participating countries.
  • World War II significantly expanded government powers as nations mobilized for war. In the U.S., federal agencies grew to manage wartime production and resource allocation. Countries like Germany and Japan saw their governments centralize power under authoritarian regimes to support military efforts. This expansion often led to a lasting increase in governmental influence over citizens' lives, setting precedents for future governance.
• Assess the long-term impacts of World War II on voting rights and models of voting behavior across different countries.
  • Post-World War II, many nations reevaluated their voting rights and democratic processes due to changes in ideology and governance. The war highlighted inequalities, prompting movements for civil rights across various countries. In Europe, decolonization efforts led to increased suffrage in former colonies. In the U.S., this era spurred significant civil rights advancements that shaped voting behavior patterns as marginalized groups sought representation and equality in democracy.

Related terms

The Allies: A coalition during World War II primarily consisting of the United States, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, and China, working together to defeat the Axis powers.

The Axis Powers: The alliance of Germany, Italy, and Japan during World War II, which sought territorial expansion and the establishment of fascist regimes.

The Holocaust: The systematic genocide orchestrated by Nazi Germany during World War II, resulting in the deaths of six million Jews and millions of others deemed undesirable.