There
were
several reasons for the outbreak of Second World War. The main reasons can be
listed as follows:
1)
Global
Economic crisis: -After the First World War, almost all
the nations in the world witnessed a total collapse of economy. The economic
system of the world was under severe stress with various problems like
inflation, unemployment, etc. which was worsened by Great Depression of 1929. The grave (serious)
discontent among people prepared the background for Second World War.
2)
Rise
of Military Dictatorship: -The democratic
government which was established in several states after the First World War
was proved to be weak, inefficient and incapable of handling the political and
economic crisis. In contrast, the despots like Mussolini and Hitler were able
to solve contemporary issues through military means. This gave rise to military
dictatorship causing international conflict.
3)
The
Peace treaty and Regional Transformation: -The
humiliating terms of the peace treaties deeply hurt the pride of Germany while
Italy felt deceived as her expectations were not fulfilled. Japan was also
disappointed by the inferior treatment. Al these developments contributed to
aggressive nationalism.
4)
The
Failure of League of Nations: -League of Nations
which set up with the intention of maintaining global peace through collective
responsibility failed to curb growing militarism. The weaker nations fell a victim
to the aggressive nations like Italy, Germany and Japan. Since League was
helpless in handling these nations, Second World War became inevitable (expected).
5)
Extreme
Nationalism and Pursuit of Weapons: -The nationalist
Europe believed in protecting one's self respect by highest sacrifice. This
gave rise to a stream of activities like secret agreements, false propaganda,
etc. growing insecurity compelled the nations to increase military strength by
inventing more destructive weapons. As a result, the situation in Europe became
explosive leading to the outbreak of Second World War.
