The Outbreak of the Second World War, September 1939

What was the beginning of the Second World War?

After Germany invaded Poland, Britain and France issued an ultimatum telling Hitler to withdraw. When Germany continued, Britain and France declared war on the 3rd September 1939.

Which events led to the start of the Second World War?

The events which triggered the beginning of the Second World War were as follows:

• ❖ At 4.45am, on the 1st September 1939, German troops invaded Poland, after falsely accusing the Poles of launching an attack across the German border.
• ❖ Even at this last moment Mussolini proposed a new peace conference and Chamberlain also delayed, waiting for the French to mobilise.
• ❖ All last minute peace proposals came to nothing, and at 11am on the 3rd September, Britain declared war on Germany.

Was Hitler surprised by the start of the Second World War?

For a number of reasons, Hitler was taken by surprise when Britain and France declared war in defence of Poland.

• ❖ Their policy of appeasement had allowed him to continue unchecked for a number of years.
• ❖ They weren't really in a position to help Poland very much.
• ❖ He had legitimate grievances over the Polish corridor.