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Autarky
Economic self-sufficiency, where a state aims to produce all goods and resources domestically rather than relying on international trade. Pursued by fascist Italy, Nazi Germany, and the USSR.
Corporate State
An economic system in fascist Italy where government-appointed boards of employers and workers managed each industry, eliminating competition and independent trade unions. The state directed production, set prices, and controlled wages to achieve national economic goals.
League of Nations
The postwar international organization created to maintain peace and collective security; Brazil was an active early member before withdrawing in 1926.
Lebensraum
A German concept meaning 'living space,' used by Hitler to argue that Germany needed to expand eastward to acquire territory for its growing population. It became a central justification for Nazi foreign policy and territorial aggression.
Mare Nostrum
Latin for "Our Sea", referring to the Mediterranean. Mussolini used this term to express his ambition to turn the Mediterranean into an Italian-dominated lake, echoing the Roman Empire's control of the region.
Rearmament
The process of rebuilding a country's military forces and weapons stockpiles. In the 1930s, both Germany and Italy pursued large-scale rearmament programmes that stimulated their economies, reduced unemployment, and prepared them for aggressive foreign policies.
Treaty of Versailles (1919)
Peace treaty ending World War I that imposed territorial losses, military restrictions, war guilt, and financial reparations on the defeated Central Powers. Its terms reshaped the post-war political map and generated lasting resentment, particularly in Germany.
Weimar Republic
The democratic government of Germany from 1919 to 1933, established after the abdication of Kaiser Wilhelm II. Named after the city of Weimar where its constitution was drafted, it was marked by political instability, economic crises, and ultimately replaced by the Nazi dictatorship.