Saturday, February 2, 2008

Treaty of Versailles

While I understand that post WW1 Germany's enemies were angry about the war but why was Germany the ONLY country blamed in the Treaty of Versailles and not Austria Hungry? A/H was just as if not more beligerant and if anything caused the entire war.

Friday, February 1, 2008

Comment on Alex Fischer's

I think that Hitler even before he was political wanted to spread his beliefs. Government power gave him more opportunity to do this. He did not want to deal or compromise with anyone because this would defeat his point. Germany and Hitler were seeking power, control, and to fulfill thier beliefs.

Countries Fighting for Power

During the time between WWI and WWII multiple individuals throughout the world worked their way into positions of power. There were leaders in Russia, Italy, and Japan that sought power with new and radical beliefs. Hitler was not alone in his radical quest for power. Many new radical leaders were doing aweful things to people much like Hitler did. They believed that what they were doing was the right thing to do. Their skewed perceptions and actions were in many cases overlooked. Why was this when so many bad things were happpening? And why were these horrific actions not remembered like Hitler's actions?

Japan

In class it was talked about how Japan had always thought it was their right to control the world but before Commodore Perry they did not associate with the rest of the world and they kept to themselves. So by forcing Japan to trade with America did America unleash a monster on the world an also feed that monster by trading with it? What would have been Japan's role in World War II if they were still secluded from the world?

Japan

In class it was talked about how Japan had always wanted to control the world and that it was their right to do so but before Commodore Perry they had a close door and would not associate with the outside world. So by opening up Japan did America actually unleash a monster on the world? Would have Japan done anything in World War II if America didn't force them to trade with them?

Social Democrats

A number of years ago, I read "The Nazi Seizure of Power" about the experiences of one German town (Northeim) b/ 1922-1945. As I recall, at one point many citizens flocked to the Social Democratic Party when they realized the threat the Nazis posed. I'm curious to know the role that the SPD had in combating the Nazis ideologically, organizationally, and physically and why they weren't ultimately successful.

Also, from the book i got the impression that the people of Northeim were in awe of the Nazis because of their charisma, youth, and confidence in their convictions despite reservations concerning their political beliefs. To what extent did these factors influence the success of the Nazi party?

Thursday, January 31, 2008

Hitler's Faces

It is apparent from the readings that Hitler had no intent to work out any kind of settlement between Germany and Poland.  He had made up his mind to attack Poland and no one was going to change his mind.  His use of brute force to gain more and more of Europe showed the world that he would not give up in his crusade to get what he wanted.  On the other hand, here is a man who was fascinated with art and when he was younger, he aspired to be an architect or artist.  To me this represents a once softer side to a man who became a vicious murderer, killing and destroy anyone and anything that stood in his way of attaining complete power.

 

I agree with Buck in questioning why the world leaders seemed to be in the dark about Hitler’s intentions.  Did his rhetoric or writings confuse them in to thinking that no harm would come from him?  Considering he made it very clear in a step-by-step plan, it is hard to understand why other countries did not take a tougher stance against him.  But, as was pointed out by Jeff, Hitler’s public speaking style generated enthusiasm and a willingness to follow, much like the Pied Piper and his flute.  

Re-writing the Beer Hall Putsch

Would there be any change in outcome if Hitler's Beer Hall Putsch had been successful and he had gained power in 1923 instead of 1933?

China?

What was going on with China during the few years before Japan attacked? Who was ruling China during this time? I never pictured China, at least during the 20th century, as being a country that could be invaded. I thought by the 1930's they were a pretty strong empire. Japan, to me, seemed a great deal smaller, not just in literal size, but also in every other way.
Also, do we know at what point the Japanese decided to attack Pearl Harbour? The book made it sound like they planned the whole attack in under a month (maybe I misread something)?

Churchill vs Chamberlain

From the readings, it seems that Churchill was the man who knew what was coming in Germany, but had no power to prevent any of it. It also seems like Chamberlain is the biggest buffoon to work for the British government. I was wondering what other people thought about this. Is hindsight 20/20 or was this how people thought at the time?

Japan's genocide in China

Every time I read an article or a book on the genocide that occurred in China by the Japanese I always find myself wondering how come this isn't a bigger topic of discussion in history textbooks  and classes in the US.  The Holocaust is always highlighted in history class discussions, and I can remember learning about it in early elementary school.  I had to find out on my own about the Japanese atrocities committed during the war.  What is up with that?  I am not trying to defend the Nazis, but the Japanese atrocities were just as bad.  They were systematic, brutal, and backed by prejudice.  

thoughts on the video

Why wasn't anything seriously done to keep Germany in compliance with the Treaty? There were numerous warning signs that met with weak responses. Could WW2 have been prevented, and would it be fair to blame France, Britain and other European powers for allowing Germany to become so powerful again?