Why had international peace collapsed by 1939?

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Why had international peace collapsed by 1939?

By the end of world war one, Germany was left with little money and a lack of national pride. They had been forced to take all responsibility for the war and pay severe reparations along with making such drastic reductions in their military capability that they felt increasingly threatened by surrounding countries.

Like many Germans of that time, Hitler believed that the Treaty of Versailles was unjust and therefore should be abolished. The treaty was a constant reminder of their defeat in the war and the humiliation brought upon them by Allies. Hitler vowed if he ever came to power he would immediately reverse the treaty and restore Germany’s former glory.

Not only did Hitler aim to give power to Germany but he aspired to increase Germany’s land. Firstly he intended to unite with Austria, following that he would persuade Czechoslovakia to join Germany. Hitler felt that too much of German land had been taken by the Treaty of Versailles; this would be one of the few factors he would soon reverse to regain German pride.

The major factor which led to the collapse of international peace was the harsh conditions forced on Germany by the Treaty of Versailles. The war left Germany in severe poverty with a sense of humiliation and a lack of nation pride. Any patriotism felt for the once powerful and respected country had bee destroyed and Germany felt repressed and threatened due to the massive decrease in their military. Hitler wanted to restore Germany’s former glory and although people of the time were disgusted by his actions and blamed Germany for yet another war, with the advantage of Hindsight we can see that Britain and France may have played a major role in ending international peace.

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In 1936, Hitler took his first major risk when he decided to demilitarise the Rhineland. This was strictly forbidden by the Treaty of Versailles and Britain and France had previously stated they would take no hesitation in affronting Germany, should it try anything. Hitler was faced with a huge decision, if he invaded the Rhineland he could have to cope with huge humiliation and he would lose all support from the army, however, should he succeed he would increase his popularity and prove that Britain and France were full of empty threats.

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