The New Order | Oversimplified Style | Alternate WW2 | TCM

Summary

The script recounts the events leading up to and during World War II, starting with Germany's resentment after World War I and Hitler's rise to power. It describes Hitler's military buildup, territorial expansions, and alliances with Italy, Japan, and other nations. The narrative covers key events like the annexation of Austria, invasions of Poland and France, and the conflict in Africa and Russia. It also imagines alternative outcomes such as an Axis victory, the fall of Britain, the collapse of the Soviet Union, and a Cold War between Germany, Japan, and the U.S.

Takeaways

• 🇩🇪 Germany after World War I was bitter and sought revenge, which led to Hitler's rise as a leader who promised to restore the country’s power.
• 💵 The Treaty of Versailles severely weakened Germany by taking away land, money, and military strength, fueling German resentment.
• ✈️ Hitler reintroduced conscription, created new military forces, and promoted technological advancements like panzers and spy technology.
• 📈 Under Hitler, Germany's economy improved rapidly, reducing inflation and unemployment, while propaganda gained him widespread support.
• ✡️ Anti-Semitic policies emerged, including the forced wearing of pins by Jews and discrimination, leading to widespread persecution.
• 🇮🇹 Italy, under Mussolini, became an ally of Germany, focusing on rebuilding its navy and strengthening ties with fascist Germany.
• 🇵🇱 Germany expanded aggressively, annexing Austria and invading Poland, prompting Britain and France to declare war, starting World War II.
• ⚔️ German military success continued as it invaded Czechoslovakia, Poland, and France, and secured Norway’s resources through invasion.
• 🌍 Turkey eventually joined the Axis powers, and Hitler's forces expanded into Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East, cutting off British supply routes.
• 💣 Japan, frustrated with American interference in Asia, formed an alliance with Germany and launched a devastating surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, which led to the U.S.'s eventual surrender after a nuclear attack.

Q & A

What were the main grievances of Germany after World War I?

Germany was bitter and angry after World War I due to the Treaty of Versailles, which took away land, money, and soldiers, leaving the country in a weakened state and desiring revenge.

Why did the German people view Hitler as the ideal leader?

Hitler promised to restore Germany’s power by reversing the terms of the Treaty of Versailles, rebuilding the military, and improving the economy, which made him highly popular among Germans.

How did Hitler initially break the Treaty of Versailles?

Hitler broke the Treaty of Versailles by rebuilding the German military, introducing conscription, and establishing a new air force, actions that Britain and France did not initially oppose.

What role did propaganda play in Hitler’s rise to power?

Hitler’s propaganda was very effective in garnering support, especially among young men who joined the army in large numbers, boosting his popularity and strengthening his regime.

What was the significance of the German annexation of Austria and parts of Czechoslovakia?

Hitler’s annexation of Austria and Czechoslovakia, especially areas with ethnic Germans, showed his expansionist goals. The Allies tried to appease him, but he continued to push into more territories, which escalated tensions leading to World War II.

How did Germany and the Soviet Union cooperate before invading Poland?

Germany and the Soviet Union signed a non-aggression pact, agreeing not to attack each other and secretly planning to divide Poland between them, which led to the invasion of Poland and the start of World War II.

How did Italy and Germany collaborate during World War II?

Italy, under Mussolini, allied with Germany, focusing on building a strong navy. Together, they expanded their influence in Europe and Africa, with Italy contributing significantly in the Mediterranean.

What was the impact of Germany’s invasion of France?

Germany’s invasion of France was swift, leading to the capture of 600,000 men in Dunkirk and the fall of Paris. Within a month, France had surrendered, significantly strengthening the Axis powers.

What effect did Turkey’s entry into the war have on the Allies?

Turkey's entry into the war on the Axis side led to the loss of the Suez Canal for the British, cutting off vital trade routes and trapping a significant portion of the British Navy in the Mediterranean.

What was the outcome of Japan’s involvement in World War II?

Japan joined the Axis powers and expanded aggressively across Southeast Asia and the Pacific. However, after their attack on Pearl Harbor and initial successes, they struggled to maintain their gains as the Americans slowly rebuilt their navy.

What was the significance of the German invasion of the Soviet Union?

The invasion of the Soviet Union was a key part of Hitler's plan, but it resulted in significant losses for the Soviets, who were poorly prepared. However, the harsh Russian winter and Soviet resilience eventually stalled the German advance.

How did World War II affect the British Empire?

The collapse of Britain during the war led to widespread revolts in its colonies. Many countries, like India and Australia, declared independence or distanced themselves from Britain, signaling the disintegration of the British Empire.

What was the turning point for the United States in World War II?

The turning point for the United States was the rebuilding of its navy after Pearl Harbor. Despite early setbacks, they launched successful campaigns in the Pacific, gradually weakening Japan and preparing for a broader offensive.

How did World War II end for the United States in this alternate scenario?

In this alternate scenario, the war ended for the U.S. after Germany dropped a nuclear bomb on Pearl Harbor. The Americans, close to developing nuclear weapons themselves, surrendered to avoid further devastation.