Pre-war+Years


 * Before World War II ...**

- **Annexation of Ethiopia** - Italians wanted great authority near the Mediterranean, so they invaded Ethiopia. Consequently, the League of Nations, which Italy and Ethiopia were both members of, decides to force economic penalties against Italy. The Second Italo-Ethiopian War began in October of 1935. This war between the troops of Italy and those of Ethiopia resulted in an Italian victory. Ethiopia was annexed into what came to be known as Italian East Africa.

- **Japanese invasion of China** - The Marco Polo Bridge near Beijing was a significant structure to the Chinese as it was restored by one of their emperors in mid sixteenth century. Tensions between the empire of Japan and the Republic of China led to a battle known as the Marco Polo Bridge Incident. The Chinese were defeated and they retreated from the bridge. This incident marked the beginning of the Second-Sino Japanese War. The Soviets offered material support to the Chinese, but the Japanese continued to prevail. In 1938, the National Government of China decided to flood the Yellow River in attempt to stall the Japanese.

- **German Occupations** - In Europe, the nations of Italy and Germany grew more powerful and authoritative. Germany annexed Austria in March of 1938. Hitler noted little response from other European nations and decided to claim land in Czechoslovakia (now Czech Republic). In agreement of no further land claims, Britain and France permitted the area of Czechoslovakia to him. However, Germany wanted to take over land in Hungary and Poland. Consequently, France and Britain agreed to help Poland gain their independence.


 * By Saher Masoodi**