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How important was the weakness of the League of Nations as a reason for the aggressive nature of the foreign policies of Germany and Italy in the 1930s? - Scottish Highers History - Question 49 - 2022
Question 49
How important was the weakness of the League of Nations as a reason for the aggressive nature of the foreign policies of Germany and Italy in the 1930s?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:How important was the weakness of the League of Nations as a reason for the aggressive nature of the foreign policies of Germany and Italy in the 1930s? - Scottish Highers History - Question 49 - 2022
Step 1
Weakness of the League of Nations
Answer
The League of Nations was fundamentally designed to promote collective security and disarmament. However, its weaknesses were apparent from the start:
- Ineffectiveness: The League often failed to enforce its resolutions, making aggressive states believe they could act with impunity. For instance, when Italy invaded Ethiopia in 1935, the League's sanctions were ineffective, emboldening fascist aggression.
- Great Power Support: The League was primarily supported by major powers with conflicting interests, which hampered its ability to act decisively. When significant countries were unwilling to prioritize collective action over national interests, it weakened the League's authority.
- Lack of Military Force: The League had no military power to enforce its resolutions, which allowed Germany and Italy to violate international agreements without facing immediate consequences.
Step 2
Context of the Peace Settlement of 1919
Answer
The Treaty of Versailles and other post-war settlements laid a foundation for discontent. The perceptions of injustice and humiliation felt by Germany, particularly regarding reparations and territorial losses, spurred nationalist sentiments that the League could not mitigate. The League was seen as a protector of the status quo, fueling resentment in Germany, allowing Hitler to exploit these grievances to rise to power.
Step 3
Fascist Ideology
Answer
The aggressive foreign policies of Germany and Italy were also rooted in fascist ideologies that encouraged expansionism. Hitler's belief in Lebensraum justified territorial conquests, while Mussolini sought to revive the glory of the Roman Empire. This sense of national superiority and destiny fostered an environment where the weaknesses of the League were viewed as an opportunity for aggressive expansion.
Step 4
Economic Factors
Answer
The Great Depression significantly impacted economic stability in Europe, leading to widespread discontent and the rise of extremist political movements. Economic hardship made nations more likely to embrace aggressive foreign policies as a means of reclaiming lost national pride and resources. The League's inability to effectively address economic grievances further contributed to the destabilization of the political landscape.
Step 5
Conclusion
Answer
In conclusion, while the weakness of the League of Nations was a critical factor in the rise of aggressive foreign policies in Germany and Italy during the 1930s, it interacted with widespread economic distress and the ideologies of fascism. The confluence of these elements created a volatile atmosphere that facilitated the erosion of European peace and security.