Causes of World War II Practice Test

In the interwar period, many states adopted protectionist policies such as tariffs and quotas to protect domestic industries during economic crisis. Germany sought autarky and expanded trade and influence in Eastern and Southeastern Europe, while Japan pursued control of resource-rich territories. Economic hardship also fueled extremist politics and demands for revision of the post–World War I order. Which argument best connects global economic conditions to the causes of World War II?

During the 1930s, Germany openly rearmed, reintroduced conscription, and developed a modern air force, violating the Treaty of Versailles. At the same time, Britain and France debated military spending and focused on domestic recovery. Some leaders believed Germany’s grievances were understandable or that negotiation could prevent war. By 1939, German forces were prepared for rapid offensives, while opponents were still completing rearmament. Which factor most directly made German aggression more likely to succeed early in World War II?