Hitler's Attack on the West and Path to War in Asia
Poland and the Outbreak of War
Hitler's ambitions extended to Poland, a territory he claimed based on pre-Treaty of Versailles borders. Despite Britain's pledge to defend Poland, Hitler remained confident in his ability to avoid significant opposition. He secured a non-aggression pact with Stalin, giving him the freedom to attack Poland.
Definition: Blitzkrieg - A military tactic employed by Germany, characterized by a swift, overwhelming force concentration that aims to quickly defeat the enemy.
On September 1, 1939, Germany invaded Poland, prompting Britain and France to declare war on September 3. The Soviet Union, honoring its pact with Germany, sent troops to occupy eastern Poland on September 17, marking the official beginning of World War II.
The "Phony War" and German Expansion
The initial period of the war, known as the "Phony War," saw little military action during the winter months. However, hostilities resumed in April 1940 with Germany launching blitzkrieg attacks against Denmark and Norway. The Netherlands fell within five days, and Belgium's army was surrounded by May 28. British and French forces found themselves trapped at Dunkirk.
Quote: Hitler told his generals that "the right thing doesn't matter, only winning does," setting the tone for what would become the most destructive war in history.
Japanese Aggression in East Asia
While Europe descended into conflict, tensions were also rising in Asia. Japan, having rebuilt its military forces, pursued an aggressive policy of expansion in East Asia. This led to conflicts with China and raised concerns among Western powers, particularly the United States.
Example: The Japanese invasion of Manchuria in 1931 and the subsequent establishment of the puppet state of Manchukuo exemplified Japan's expansionist policies in Asia.
The Course of World War II
The early stages of the war saw Germany achieve rapid victories through its blitzkrieg tactics. Poland surrendered in just four weeks, and by September 28, 1939, Germany and the Soviet Union had divided Poland between them.
Germany's air superiority initially threatened Britain, but a change in German tactics allowed the British to gain control of the air, forcing Hitler to postpone the invasion of Britain indefinitely.
Highlight: The Battle of Britain marked a crucial turning point, as it represented the first major defeat of Hitler's military forces and prevented a German invasion of the British Isles.
