Key Events Datesheet

The period from 1929 to 1939 saw significant international events leading to the rise of extremism and the onset of World War II.

Wall Street Crash — A major financial collapse in October 1929 that led to global economic turmoil. Example: Triggered mass unemployment and protectionism worldwide.
Manchuria Invaded — Japan's invasion of Chinese territory on 18 September 1931. Example: Highlighted the ineffectiveness of the League of Nations.
Hitler Becomes Chancellor — On 30 January 1933, Hitler's rise to power marked the start of Nazi dominance. Example: Led to the destruction of the Versailles settlement.
Anglo-German Naval Pact — An agreement on 18 June 1935 that allowed Germany to expand its navy. Example: Undermined collective security principles.
Abyssinia Invaded — Mussolini's attack on 3 October 1935 exposed the League's inability to enforce sanctions. Example: Showed the League's weakness in stopping aggression.
Munich Agreement — A pact on 30 September 1938 where Czechoslovakia was sacrificed for peace. Example: Chamberlain's appeasement policy reached its peak.
Nazi–Soviet Pact — A non-aggression treaty signed on 23 August 1939. Example: Removed the threat of a two-front war for Germany.
War Declared — On 3 September 1939, Britain and France declared war on Germany. Example: Marked the beginning of the Second World War.

Key Definitions to Remember

Common Confusions

Typical Exam Questions

What were the consequences of the Wall Street Crash? It led to global economic turmoil and increased extremism.
How did the League of Nations respond to the invasion of Manchuria? The League's investigation was ineffective, showing its weaknesses.
Why was the Nazi–Soviet Pact significant? It allowed Germany to avoid a two-front war.

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