Invasion of Poland

The invasion of Poland, which began on September 1, 1939, marked the beginning of World War II. It was carried out by Nazi Germany, under the leadership of Adolf Hitler, and it was a pivotal event that led to the involvement of major world powers in the war.

Causes of the Invasion

One of the main causes of the invasion was Hitler's desire for territorial expansion and the implementation of his aggressive expansionist policies, known as Lebensraum. He aimed to annex Polish territories and unite all German-speaking people under one nation.

Events of the Invasion

The invasion of Poland was a coordinated attack by Germany, which was quickly followed by the Soviet Union's invasion from the east on September 17, 1939. The Polish army was ill-equipped to defend against the German blitzkrieg tactics and the simultaneous attacks from both sides.

Consequences of the Invasion

The invasion of Poland led to the immediate occupation of the country by German and Soviet forces. This event also prompted the United Kingdom and France to declare war on Germany, officially marking the beginning of World War II in Europe.

Study Guide

Describe the main causes of the invasion of Poland by Nazi Germany.
Explain the significance of the invasion of Poland as the catalyst for the start of World War II.
Analyze the military tactics employed by Germany during the invasion.
Discuss the impact of the invasion on the Polish population and the political landscape of Europe.
Examine the reactions of the international community to the invasion and its implications for the course of the war.

By studying the invasion of Poland, we gain valuable insights into the complex geopolitical factors that contributed to the outbreak of World War II and the devastating impact it had on the global stage.

◂Social Studies Worksheets and Study Guides Eighth Grade. Expansionism

The resources above cover the following skills:

National Standards for Civics and Government (NSCG)

How does the government established by the constitution embody the purposes, values, and principles of American democracy? What does the national government do?

Major responsibilities for domestic and foreign policy. Students should be able to explain the major responsibilities of the national government for domestic and foreign policy. To achieve this standard, students should be able to

Identify historical and contemporary examples of important foreign policies, e.g., Monroe Doctrine, Marshall Plan, immigration acts, foreign aid, arms control, promoting democracy and human rights throughout the world

National Center for History in Schools (NCHS)

Historical Thinking Standards

Historical Comprehension

Reconstruct the literal meaning of a historical passage.

United States History Content Standards

Era 4: Expansion and Reform (1801-1861)

United States territorial expansion between 1801 and 1861, and how it affected relations with external powers and Native Americans.

The student understands the international background and consequences of the Louisiana Purchase, the War of 1812, and the Monroe Doctrine.

Era 6: The Development of the Industrial United States (1870-1900)

Federal Indian policy and United States foreign policy after the Civil War.

The student understands the roots and development of American expansionism and the causes and outcomes of the Spanish-American War.

World History Content Standards

Era 7: An Age of Revolutions, 1750-1914

Patterns of nationalism, state-building, and social reform in Europe and the Americas, 1830-1914.

The student understands the political, economic, and social transformations in the Americas in the 19th century.

Invasion of Poland

Causes of the Invasion

Events of the Invasion

Consequences of the Invasion

Study Guide

[Invasion Of Poland] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

◂Social Studies Worksheets and Study Guides Eighth Grade. Expansionism

The resources above cover the following skills: