Which of the following was a major cause of World War II?

• A. Establishment of the United Nations
• B. Failure of the Treaty of Versailles
• C. Development of nuclear weapons
• D. Rise of democratic governments

Answer: (B)

The failure of the Treaty of Versailles was a significant cause of World War II due to its harsh terms imposed on Germany following World War I. The treaty aimed to weaken Germany to prevent future aggression, but it ultimately led to widespread resentment among the German population. The stipulations included severe reparations payments, territorial losses, and military restrictions that crippled the German economy and national pride.

As political and economic conditions deteriorated in Germany during the 1920s and early 1930s, extremist parties, including the Nazis, gained traction by promising to restore Germany's former glory and to repudiate the terms of the Treaty of Versailles. Adolf Hitler capitalized on these sentiments, promoting an expansionist and militaristic agenda that contributed to the outbreak of World War II. The treaty’s failure to establish a lasting peace or provide stability in Europe created an environment ripe for conflict, directly leading to the war.

In contrast, the establishment of the United Nations occurred after World War II and aimed to promote peace and cooperation, while the development of nuclear weapons, although significant, did not directly cause the war but instead played a role in its conclusion and the ensuing Cold War. Additionally, the rise of democratic governments in some nations did not have a substantial immediate impact