The origins of the Second World War can be traced back to the aftermath of World War I and the harsh terms of the Treaty of Versailles. This treaty imposed heavy reparations on Germany, leading to economic hardship and political instability. The rise of extremist political movements, particularly Nazism under Adolf Hitler, fueled aggressive expansionist policies in Europe. Additionally, the failure of the League of Nations to maintain peace and the policy of appeasement adopted by major powers allowed countries like Germany, Italy, and Japan to pursue territorial ambitions unchecked. These factors ultimately culminated in the outbreak of war in 1939.