1935

Definition

The year 1935 marks a significant turning point in the lead-up to World War II, characterized by escalating tensions and aggressive policies from various nations. During this time, several key events occurred, including the rearmament of Germany under Adolf Hitler and the implementation of the Nuremberg Laws, which targeted Jews and solidified discriminatory practices. These actions contributed to the growing instability in Europe and set the stage for the conflict that would soon erupt.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In 1935, Germany reintroduced conscription and began openly violating the Treaty of Versailles by expanding its military forces.
2. The Nuremberg Laws were passed in September 1935, institutionalizing racial discrimination against Jews and marking a significant escalation in Nazi policies.
3. Italy invaded Ethiopia in October 1935, demonstrating aggressive expansionist policies that further destabilized Europe and heightened tensions.
4. The Stresa Front was formed in April 1935 as an agreement between Britain, France, and Italy to oppose German rearmament, though it ultimately proved ineffective.
5. The rise of fascism in Europe during this period, exemplified by actions taken by Germany and Italy, foreshadowed the larger conflicts that would culminate in World War II.

Review Questions

• How did the events of 1935 contribute to the escalating tensions leading to World War II?
  • The events of 1935 significantly contributed to the rising tensions that led to World War II through Germany's rearmament and the enactment of the Nuremberg Laws. By reintroducing conscription and expanding its military capabilities, Germany openly defied the Treaty of Versailles, alarming other European powers. Meanwhile, the Nuremberg Laws institutionalized discrimination against Jews, reflecting the Nazi regime's aggressive policies that threatened stability across Europe.
• What was the impact of the Nuremberg Laws on Jewish communities in Germany during this period?
  • The Nuremberg Laws had a devastating impact on Jewish communities in Germany by stripping them of citizenship and legal rights, effectively marginalizing them within society. This legal framework facilitated widespread discrimination and persecution, leading to increased violence against Jews. The laws also set a precedent for further oppressive measures that would escalate into the horrors of the Holocaust, illustrating how discriminatory policies can lead to systemic violence.
• Evaluate how international responses to aggression during 1935 foreshadowed future conflicts in World War II.
  • International responses to aggression in 1935 highlighted a pattern of appeasement that would ultimately fail to prevent conflict. For instance, despite forming alliances like the Stresa Front to counteract German rearmament, Britain and France were hesitant to take decisive action against Hitler's violations. The lack of a unified and strong response emboldened aggressive powers like Germany and Italy, revealing a critical misjudgment that would lead to greater conflicts as these nations continued their expansionist agendas unchecked.

Related terms

Nuremberg Laws: A set of anti-Semitic laws enacted in Nazi Germany that stripped Jews of their citizenship and various rights, laying the groundwork for systemic persecution.

Rearmament: The process of rebuilding and strengthening a nation's military forces, which was notably pursued by Germany after World War I in violation of the Treaty of Versailles.

Appeasement:

A diplomatic policy aimed at avoiding conflict by making concessions to an aggressive power, notably employed by Britain and France towards Hitler's Germany.