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Why did world go to war over Poland? - Coggle Diagram
Why did world go to war over Poland?
Poland trapped between two countries which wanted its territory
USSR
Germany
Danzig was the main issue in Polish-German relations, controlled by Nazi party
After destruction of Czechoslovakia, Germany clearly expressed Poland to be its next target
Security actions of Polish Government
Built armed forces up over time
By mid 1930s, became clear that Germany had rearmed far past Poland, and they could not longer resist them
Signed defense pact with France
By mid 1930's, France proved themselves unreliable without British backing
Generally assumed USSR to be bigger threat
General Beck "With the Germans we risk losing our liberty. With the Russians we lose our souls."
Signed non-aggression pact with Germany
Refused to allow soviet troops to cross through Poland
In March 1939 Britain and France guaranteed to defend Poland against Germany
April 1939
Hitler denied non-aggression pact with Poland
German press started making allegations about Polish treatment of German minorities
Hitler re-stated German claims to Danzig (run by Nazi Party)
1 September, Hitler ordered troops to attack Poland under false pretext of border violations
Britain and France issue ultimatum to withdraw troops
3 September, Britain and France declare war on Germany
Britain and France try to persuade Poland to give up Danzig
Which would have resulted in even further Appeasement