All questions of The Second World War for Class 10 Exam

Primary Purpose of the United Nations
The United Nations (UN) was established in 1945, following the devastation of World War II, with the primary goal of preventing future conflicts and fostering global cooperation. The correct answer, option 'B', emphasizes the UN’s central aim: to maintain international peace and security.
Key Objectives of the UN
- Preventing Wars:
The UN seeks to resolve disputes before they escalate into armed conflicts. It provides a platform for dialogue and negotiation among member states.
- Peacekeeping Missions:
The UN deploys peacekeeping forces to conflict zones to help maintain ceasefires and support political processes. These missions aim to stabilize regions after conflicts and assist in rebuilding efforts.
- Promoting Human Rights:
The UN supports the protection of human rights globally, addressing issues that could lead to conflicts, such as discrimination and injustice.
- Facilitating International Cooperation:
The UN acts as a forum for countries to collaborate on pressing global issues, including poverty, health, and climate change, which contribute to social tensions and conflicts.
Conclusion
In summary, while the UN has various roles, its foundational purpose is centered on maintaining international peace and security. By providing a collaborative platform for nations, the UN aims to prevent conflicts and promote stability around the world. This focus on peacekeeping and diplomacy distinguishes the UN from military alliances or colonial pursuits, affirming its role as a peace-oriented global organization.

The Targeted Cities: Hiroshima and Nagasaki
In 1945, during the final stages of World War II, the United States dropped atomic bombs on two Japanese cities: Hiroshima and Nagasaki. This decision was aimed at hastening Japan's surrender and ultimately ending the war.
Hiroshima
- On August 6, 1945, the first atomic bomb, codenamed "Little Boy," was dropped on Hiroshima.
- The explosion resulted in catastrophic destruction, killing approximately 140,000 people by the end of the year.
- The city faced immense devastation, with around 70% of its buildings destroyed or severely damaged.
Nagasaki
- Three days later, on August 9, 1945, a second bomb, known as "Fat Man," was dropped on Nagasaki.
- This attack caused significant damage, killing an estimated 70,000 people instantly and resulting in a total of about 80,000 deaths by the end of the year.
- Unlike Hiroshima, Nagasaki had more varied terrain, which somewhat limited the bomb's full destructive potential.
Consequences of the Bombings
- The bombings led to Japan's unconditional surrender on August 15, 1945, effectively ending World War II.
- They marked the first and only use of nuclear weapons in armed conflict, raising ethical and humanitarian concerns that continue to resonate today.
- The aftermath of the bombings also led to a significant shift in international relations and discussions around nuclear warfare.
In conclusion, the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were pivotal moments in history, demonstrating the devastating power of nuclear weapons and influencing military and diplomatic strategies in the years that followed.

Introduction
The League of Nations was established after World War I with the aim of promoting peace and cooperation among countries. However, it ultimately failed to achieve its objectives, and one significant reason for this was the absence of the United States.
Impact of the USA's Absence
- Loss of Credibility: The United States was a major world power and its absence weakened the League's authority and credibility. Without the support of such a significant nation, other countries were less likely to take the League seriously.
- Limited Resources: The League lacked the military and economic resources that the USA could have provided. The effectiveness of the League in enforcing decisions was severely hampered without American support.
- Isolationist Policies: The USA adopted an isolationist stance following World War I, prioritizing its own interests over international commitments. This attitude discouraged other nations from fully engaging with the League.
Consequences for Global Peace
- Inability to Prevent Aggression: Major conflicts, such as the invasion of Manchuria by Japan and the Italian invasion of Ethiopia, highlighted the League's ineffectiveness. The absence of the USA made it difficult to mobilize a collective response to aggression.
- Failure to Resolve Disputes: The League struggled to mediate disputes and enforce resolutions, leading to a perception that it was powerless. This undermined the confidence of member nations in the League's ability to maintain peace.
Conclusion
In summary, the refusal of the USA to join the League of Nations was a critical factor in its failure. Without the involvement of this influential nation, the League struggled to establish itself as a credible and effective organization for maintaining international peace.

Overview of the Battle of Britain
The Battle of Britain, fought between July and October 1940, was a crucial air campaign during World War II. It was characterized primarily by extensive air raids conducted by the German Luftwaffe against the United Kingdom.
Key Characteristics of the Battle
- Air Raids by the German Luftwaffe
- The Luftwaffe aimed to gain air superiority over Britain to facilitate a potential invasion (Operation Sea Lion).
- Major cities, industrial sites, and military targets were bombed, with London enduring the brunt of the attacks during the Blitz.
- The Role of the Royal Air Force (RAF)
- The RAF defended Britain using advanced tactics and technology, including radar, which provided early warning of incoming attacks.
- British pilots, including the famed "Few," displayed remarkable bravery and skill in aerial combat.
- Impact on Civilian Life
- The air raids caused significant destruction and loss of life, profoundly affecting British civilians and leading to widespread efforts for shelter and safety.
- Strategic Outcome
- Despite suffering heavy losses, the RAF successfully repelled the Luftwaffe, marking the first major defeat of Hitler's military campaigns.
- This victory boosted Allied morale and proved that air power could effectively resist invasion.
Conclusion
In summary, the Battle of Britain was characterized by relentless air raids from the German Luftwaffe, countered by the resolute defense of the RAF. This pivotal moment in the war underscored the importance of air superiority and set the stage for future Allied victories.