August 23, 1939. The world gasps in disbelief. Nazi Germany and Communist Russia — ideological enemies — have signed a non-aggression pact. The secret protocol carves up Poland between them. Hitler has secured his eastern flank. A week later, German tanks roll into Poland. On September 3, 1939, Britain and France declare war. World War Two has begun.
This introduction covers Setting the Scene within Outbreak of War for GCSE History. Revise Outbreak of War in Conflict and Tension 1918-1939 for GCSE History with 8 exam-style questions and 15 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 1 of 14 in this topic. Use this introduction to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for Outbreak of War
On what date was the Nazi-Soviet Pact signed?
What did the secret protocol of the Nazi-Soviet Pact arrange?
Quick recall flashcards
Why did Stalin sign?
Buy time, gain territory, distrusted Britain/France after Munich
Nazi-Soviet Pact date?
23 August 1939