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History of WWII

Unit 1
Axis Powers
Axis Powers: Germany, Italy, JapanCauses of World War II: The Rise of the Axis PowersIdeologies and Goals of the Axis PowersThe Pact of Steel and the Tripartite Pact: Formation of the Axis
Unit 1 • Chapter 4

The Pact of Steel and the Tripartite Pact: Formation of the Axis

Video Summary

The Pact of Steel, signed in 1939 between Italy and Germany, marked the formal beginning of the Axis alliance. It solidified a military alliance between the two fascist regimes, promising mutual assistance in case of attack and aiming to expand their influence in Europe. The Tripartite Pact, signed in 1940, expanded the alliance to include Japan. This agreement aimed to counter the growing power of the Allied nations and establish a new world order dominated by the Axis powers. It formalized a shared ideology of anti-communism and territorial expansion, setting the stage for the outbreak of World War II.

Knowledge Check

What was the primary objective of the Pact of Steel?

Which country joined the Axis powers with the signing of the Tripartite Pact?

What was a key ideological principle shared by the Axis powers?