The Origins of the Second World War

Exploring the reasons why the Second World War broke out in 1939 and why a European conflict developed into a war that spanned the globe, this book covers the origins of the war from its background in the First World War to its expansion to the Soviet Union, Japan and the United States by the end of 1941. Comprehensive yet succinct, it takes a thematic approach to the complex range of events that culminated in global warfare, discussing factors such as economic rivalry and domestic politics. Containing updated references and primary source documents alongside a glossary, a chronology and a Who’s Who, it is an invaluable introduction for any student of this fascinating period.