There were several basic causes for the outbreak of the Second World War, including:
1. Treaty of Versailles: The harsh terms imposed on Germany by the Treaty of Versailles after World War I, including massive reparations payments and territorial losses, left Germany feeling humiliated and resentful. This created a sense of injustice and a desire for revenge that fueled the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party.
2. Expansionist ambitions: Hitler's aggressive expansionist policies, aimed at creating a Greater Germany and establishing German dominance in Europe, led to the annexation of Austria, the Sudetenland, and eventually the invasion of Poland, triggering the outbreak of war.
3. Appeasement: The policy of appeasement pursued by Western powers, particularly Britain and France, in the face of Hitler's aggressive actions only served to embolden him and allowed him to continue his expansionist policies unchecked.
4. Failure of the League of Nations: The League of Nations, established after World War I to promote peace and prevent future conflicts, proved ineffective in dealing with the aggressive actions of dictators like Hitler and Mussolini, undermining its credibility and ability to maintain peace.
5. Economic instability: The global economic depression of the 1930s created widespread unemployment, poverty, and social unrest, leading to the rise of extremist political movements and increasing tensions between nations.
6. Nationalism and militarism: The intense nationalism and militarism that characterized many European countries in the interwar period fueled competition for power and resources, leading to a climate of distrust and hostility that ultimately culminated in war.
Overall, a combination of factors, including the legacy of World War I, the aggressive actions of dictators, the failure of international institutions, economic instability, and nationalist and militaristic ideologies, all contributed to the outbreak of the Second World War.