Second World War | Famous Books for UPSC Exam (Summary & Tests) PDF Download

Introduction

World War II, also known as the Second World War, was a momentous conflict that engulfed nearly every corner of the globe between the years 1939 and 1945. It pitted the Axis powers—Germany, Italy, and Japan—against the Allies—comprising France, Great Britain, the United States, the Soviet Union, and, to some extent, China. This war was the largest and most destructive conflict in history, lasting almost six years and leaving a staggering toll of around 100 million militarized individuals and 50 million lives lost, equivalent to about 3% of the world's population.

Causes of War

The outbreak of World War II was precipitated by a combination of key factors. The aftermath of World War I and the punitive Treaty of Versailles, the global economic depression of the 1930s, the rise of militarism and fascism in Germany and Japan, and the ineffective League of Nations all contributed to the escalating tensions that eventually erupted into war.

Treaty of Versailles

The Treaty of Versailles, imposed on Germany after World War I, laid the groundwork for future conflicts. Germany was forced to accept responsibility for the war and pay heavy reparations. The treaty also imposed territorial losses and limitations on Germany's military. The humiliation caused by this treaty fueled the rise of Ultra-Nationalism in Germany, creating a breeding ground for further aggression.

Failure of the League of Nations

The League of Nations, established in 1919 to promote world peace through diplomatic means, proved inadequate in preventing military aggression. Not all nations became members of the League, and its lack of an effective military force allowed countries like Italy and Japan to invade other territories without fear of intervention.

Great Depression of 1929

The worldwide economic downturn of the 1930s resulted in political shifts towards totalitarian and imperialist governments in Europe and aggressive expansionism in Asia. Germany, Italy, and Spain turned to militaristic regimes, while Japan sought to secure resources through aggressive invasions of neighboring countries.

Rise of Fascism and Nazism

The rise of Fascism, as exemplified by Benito Mussolini's dictatorship in Italy and Adolf Hitler's Nazi regime in Germany, promised efficient governance and defense against communism. Hitler's racial ideology led to the genocide of millions, particularly targeting Jews, Slavs, and other groups deemed inferior.

Policy of Appeasement

Despite the aggressive actions of Hitler and Germany, Britain and France pursued a policy of appeasement, hoping to avoid another devastating war. The Munich Agreement of 1938 allowed Germany to annex parts of Czechoslovakia, but the promise of peace was short-lived, as Germany continued its aggressive expansion.

Key Turning Points of World War II

• The Start: The war's beginnings were marked by escalating tensions and a series of events leading to the German invasion of Poland on September 1, 1939. This act prompted Britain and France to declare war on Germany two days later, officially beginning World War II.
• Phoney War: The first few months of the war were relatively quiet in Western Europe, earning the period the moniker "phoney war." Preparations for conflict continued, but major hostilities were limited until later stages of the war.
• Ribbentrop Pact: Hitler sought to avoid a potential two-front war, leading to a non-aggression pact with the Soviet Union in 1939. This pact allowed both Germany and the USSR to invade and divide Poland, further intensifying the war.
• Winter War 1940: The "Winter War" between Russia and Finland concluded in March, followed by Germany's invasion of Denmark and Norway. Denmark surrendered swiftly, while Norway resisted with British and French assistance before surrendering in June 1940.
• Fall of France 1940: Germany invaded France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, employing Blitzkrieg tactics with armored tanks and air superiority. France signed an armistice with Germany, leading to the establishment of the Vichy government. Hitler then turned his focus to Britain, planning an invasion.
• Battle of Britain 1940: The Battle of Britain, fought solely in the air from July to September 1940, saw the Royal Air Force's narrow victory over the German Luftwaffe, preventing the planned German invasion of Britain.
• War Getting Global: With much of continental Europe under Nazi control and Britain standing firm, the war expanded globally in 1941. Germany invaded Greece and Yugoslavia, while Japan attacked the United States at Pearl Harbor, drawing the U.S. into the conflict.
• Operation Barbarossa: In 1941, Hitler broke the Ribbentrop Pact and invaded the Soviet Union. Initially successful, the German advance faltered in the harsh Russian winter, and the Eastern Front became a stalemate until the spring.
• Reversal of German Fortunes: By the second half of 1942, German forces suffered significant defeats in North Africa and Stalingrad, marking turning points in the war. The Allied forces began to gain momentum, leading to further defeats for Germany and Italy.
• Nuclear Bombing And The End: In 1945, the use of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki by the U.S. forced Japan's surrender, bringing World War II to its conclusion.

Aftermath of World War II

World War II left a lasting impact on countries and continents, shaping the geopolitical landscape in significant ways:

• New Superpowers: The war led to a shift in global power dynamics. Britain and France lost their status as preeminent superpowers, while the United States and the Soviet Union emerged as the dominant forces on the world stage.
• Start of Decolonization: The war weakened colonial powers, and post-war challenges made it untenable for Britain and France to maintain their colonies. This resulted in the end of colonialism in Africa and Asia, leading to the independence of many countries.
• Birth of the United Nations: The devastating consequences of World War II led to the establishment of the United Nations Organization, aimed at maintaining international peace and cooperation among nations.
• Start of the Cold War: The post-war era also marked the beginning of the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union, leading to increased global tensions and competition.
• New Economic World Order: The Bretton Woods Conference created financial arrangements for the post-war world, including the establishment of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.
• India and World War II: India played a significant role in World War II. The war had a profound impact on India's struggle for independence, and the post-war period saw a shift towards granting India its independence in 1947.

Conclusion

World War II was a defining moment in human history, shaping the geopolitical landscape, decolonizing the world, and laying the groundwork for a new world order. The war's lessons continue to resonate, reminding us of the importance of diplomacy, international cooperation, and the pursuit of lasting peace.