Introduction to World War II

5 Ws of a Cause of WWII

View Activity

Significant Leaders

View Activity

Innovations

View Activity

Theatres of War

View Activity

Biography Poster

View Activity

Essential Questions

1. What were the causes that lead to World War II?
2. Who were the major leaders of World War II?
3. What new technology or innovations were used during the war?
4. What were the theaters of World War II?

World War II

On November 11th, 1918 World War I or “the war to end all wars” came to an end. Many believed that World War I would be the most catastrophic combat the world would ever see. But in 1939, the world watched Germany invade Poland and once again, humanity witnessed the world spiral into an even more deadly and destructive war. World War II lasted from 1939 to 1945 and over thirty countries took part in a global conflict that resulted between 50,000,000 to 80,000,000 deaths. The most destructive war in human history spanned throughout the globe and forever shaped the geopolitical landscape of the world as we know it.

Before a student of history can understand the magnitude of this global conflict, it is imperative to first answer the question, “How did this war happen?” and hopefully discuss how we can prevent this from ever happening again. Through the examination of the origins of World War II, students will understand the horrific impacts that can occur when the power of leaders go unchecked and hate, along with fear, can quickly spread throughout a planet.

Check out other lesson plans on history and literature during World War II and Holocaust

• The History of the Holocaust
• Introduction to World War II
• World War II: 1939-1941
• World War II: 1942-1945
• Night by Elie Wiesel
• The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
• The Sunflower by Simon Wiesenthal
• "First They Came" by Martin Niemoller
• Lily's Crossing By Patricia Reilly Giff
• White Bird by RJ Palacio
• Once by Morris Gleitzman
• Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli
• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
• The Boy on the Wooden Box by Leon Leyson
• The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne

Frequently Asked Questions about Introduction to World War II

What are the main causes of World War II explained simply for students?

The main causes of World War II include unresolved issues from World War I, the rise of aggressive leaders like Hitler, economic struggles such as the Great Depression, and expansionist policies by countries like Germany, Italy, and Japan. These factors combined to create tensions that erupted into global conflict in 1939.

Who were the major leaders during World War II and what roles did they play?

Major leaders in World War II included Adolf Hitler (Germany), Winston Churchill (Britain), Franklin D. Roosevelt (USA), Joseph Stalin (Soviet Union), and Emperor Hirohito (Japan). Each led their countries through crucial decisions and battles that shaped the outcome of the war.

What new technology or innovations were introduced in World War II?

World War II saw many innovations, including radar, atomic bombs, jet aircraft, and advanced tanks. These technologies changed warfare by making battles faster, more destructive, and more global in scale.

How did the aftermath of World War I lead to the start of World War II?

The Treaty of Versailles left Germany with harsh penalties and economic hardship after World War I. This led to anger and instability, allowing leaders like Hitler to rise to power and pursue aggressive expansion, which sparked World War II.

What were the major theaters of conflict in World War II?

The major theaters of World War II were the European Theater, Pacific Theater, North African Theater, and Eastern Front. Each was a region where significant battles and campaigns took place between Axis and Allied forces.