Question

Read the passage given and answer the following question:

In an effort to secure resources for its expanding industries, Japan invaded the northern Chinese province of Manchuria. Although many Western nations protested the Japanese action, most members of the League of Nations, including Canada, opposed any form of military intervention to defend Chinese sovereignty. A League of Nations commission, headed by the British diplomat Lord Lytton, was dispatched to Manchuria to investigate. - Loyal Edmonton Regiment Museum

How did the incident being described above become a cause for the Second World War?

Answer 1

The Japanese invasion of Manchuria in 1931 was a major factor in the outbreak of World War II because:

1. Weakness of the League of Nations: Despite criticising Japan’s invasion, the League did not take significant action against it. This exposed its weakness, leading to future aggression from countries such as Germany and Italy.
2. Rise of Militarism in Japan: Japan increased its aggressiveness after learning that there were no serious consequences. This led to an invasion of China in 1937 and to participation in World War II as one of the Axis Powers.
3. Encouraged Axis Powers: After Japan’s success, Hitler (Germany) and Mussolini (Italy) realised they could extend their territories without facing significant opposition, leading to further invasions in Europe and Africa.