Light

Axis Powers

Definition

The Axis Powers were a group of countries led by Germany, Italy, and Japan that fought against the Allies in World War II.

Analogy

Think of the Axis Powers like the "villain team" in a superhero movie. Just as villains often band together to fight against the heroes, these countries joined forces to oppose the Allies during World War II.

Related terms

Fascism: A political ideology that emerged in early 20th-century Europe which emphasizes dictatorial power, forcible suppression of opposition, and strong regimentation of society and economy. Both Germany under Hitler and Italy under Mussolini followed this ideology during WWII.

Nazi Germany: Refers to Germany from 1933 to 1945 when it was governed by Adolf Hitler and his National Socialist German Workers' Party (NSDAP). It played a leading role in initiating World War II.

Imperial Japan: Refers to Japan's national identity from 1868-1947 marked by rapid industrialization and militarization under Emperor Hirohito's rule. During WWII, Imperial Japan allied with Nazi Germany forming part of the Axis powers.