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Events Leading to World War II — Reading Comprehension

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This passage explores the complex causes of World War II, focusing on the interwar period, the Treaty of Versailles, the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party, and the policy of appeasement. Students will analyze primary source examples, such as excerpts from the Treaty of Versailles and speeches by world leaders, and examine cause-and-effect relationships that led to the outbreak of war in 1939. The passage is aligned with CA HSS 10.8 and CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.6-8 standards and includes a glossary, a simplified version for emerging readers, a Spanish translation, comprehension questions, writing activities, and graphic organizers. Students will develop historical reasoning skills by connecting geographic context, social hierarchy, and the human impact of these events. This history reading passage also includes read aloud audio and Spanish translation, making it accessible for diverse learners.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Treaty of Versailles oldphoto — "Treaty of Versailles" by http://iconicphotos.files.wordpress.com/2009/04/c-000242.jpg / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

World War II began in September 1939, but its causes can be traced to events and decisions made much earlier in the twentieth century. The conflict involved many nations and resulted in immense destruction, but understanding why it started helps explain the world we live in today. Several major factors contributed to the outbreak of this global war.

One key factor was the Treaty of Versailles, signed in 1919 at the end of World War I. This treaty placed heavy reparations—payments for war damages—on Germany and took away its territories. Many Germans felt that the treaty was too harsh and unfair. According to the treaty's Article 231, also known as the “war guilt clause,” Germany was forced to accept full responsibility for starting World War I. This created deep resentment among the German people and weakened their economy. In the years that followed, high unemployment and poverty fueled anger and a desire for change.

The rise of totalitarian leaders was another crucial cause. In Germany, Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party promised to restore Germany’s power and pride. Hitler’s speeches, which were widely published and broadcast, blamed Jews, communists, and the Treaty of Versailles for Germany’s problems. Primary sources, such as Hitler’s 1938 speech in Berlin, show how he used propaganda to build support. Similar dictatorships rose in Italy under Benito Mussolini and in Japan under military leaders. These governments rejected democracy and used violence and fear to control their people.

Another cause was the policy of appeasement by Britain and France. In the 1930s, these countries allowed Germany to break several rules of the Treaty of Versailles, hoping to avoid another war. For example, in 1936, Hitler sent troops into the Rhineland, a region that was supposed to remain demilitarized. Britain and France did not stop him. In 1938, Hitler demanded and received the Sudetenland, part of Czechoslovakia, after the Munich Agreement. A famous photograph shows British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain shaking hands with Hitler. Many historians believe appeasement encouraged further aggression.

Geography also played a role. Germany’s central location in Europe allowed it to quickly invade neighboring countries. Additionally, the failure of the League of Nations, an international organization meant to keep peace, meant there was no strong force to stop aggressive nations. When Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939, Britain and France finally declared war, marking the start of World War II.

Understanding the causes of World War II is important because it shows how political decisions, economic conditions, and international relations can lead to conflict. By learning about these causes, students can connect the past to present-day issues of war and peace.

This unit will help you explore how the lessons of the 1930s relate to other themes in world history, such as the impact of leadership and the importance of international cooperation.

Interesting Fact: In 1938, British newspapers celebrated the Munich Agreement as bringing “peace for our time,” but this peace lasted less than a year before war began.

When did World War II begin?

September 1939July 1914October 1929April 1945

Who became leader of Germany in 1933?

Adolf HitlerNeville ChamberlainBenito MussoliniWinston Churchill

What was the Treaty of Versailles?

End of World War IStart of World War IIPeace with JapanLeague of Nations formed

Why did appeasement encourage Hitler?

He faced no punishmentHe lost powerHe gained new alliesHe was arrested

How did geography help Germany?

Central location for invasionSurrounded by oceansNo neighbors nearbyHigh mountains blocked attack

What happened after Germany invaded Poland?

Britain and France declared warGermany stopped attackingHitler signed a peace treatyLeague of Nations intervened