Hitler's pursuit of expansionist policies led to the outbreak of World War II from "summary" of Rise And Fall Of The Third Reich by William L. Shirer
Hitler's insatiable thirst for power and expansion drove him to pursue aggressive policies that ultimately sparked the outbreak of World War II. His belief in the superiority of the Aryan race fueled his desire to conquer new territories and establish a Greater German Empire. From the very beginning of his rule, Hitler made it clear that Germany would not be content with the borders set by the Treaty of Versailles. He sought to reclaim lost territories and expand German influence across Europe. His military buildup and aggressive diplomacy alarmed the international community, but Hitler remained undeterred in his quest for dominance. The remilitarization of the Rhineland in 1936 marked the first step in Hitler's expansionist agenda. This bold move violated the terms of the Treaty of Versailles and demonstrated Hitler's willingness to defy international agreements to achieve his goals. The lack of significant opposition encouraged Hitler to continue his aggressive actions in the following years. The annexation of Austria in 1938 and the dismemberment of Czechoslovakia in 1939 further highlighted Hitler's determination to expand German territory at any cost. These actions not only destabilized the region but also alarmed Britain and France, who realized that Hitler's ambitions posed a direct threat to European peace. The signing of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact with the Soviet Union in 1939 allowed Hitler to pursue his expansionist policies without fear of Soviet intervention. The subsequent invasion of Poland in September 1939 triggered the beginning of World War II, as Britain and France declared war on Germany in response to the aggression.- As millions lost their lives in the conflict that followed. Hitler's actions serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked aggression and the importance of upholding international peace and security.
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