Mr. Allocco

Imperialism was one of the major factors leading to World War I. The race for colonies led to an increase in nationalism and militarism. Alliances were also formed to protect each nation’s interests. This contributed to economic and military competition among European nations, the Ottoman Empire, and Japan.  Although World War I was meant to end all wars, the failure of the Treaty of Versailles, the impact of the global depression, and the expansionist policies and actions of Axis nations directly led to World War II.

In this unit students will learn that World Wars I and II were "total wars" in which nations mobilized entire populations and economies. These wars employed new military tactics that resulted in unprecedented death and destruction, as well as drastic changes in political boundaries.  Students will also analyze how World Wars I and II challenged economic and political power structures and gave rise to a new balance of power in the world.  Furthermore, students will evaluate how economic, technological, military and bureaucratic power was used by nations to deliberately and systematically destroy ethnic/racial, political, and cultural groups.