The naval agreement of 1935 was a significant moment in the prelude to World War II. The treaty, which was signed between Great Britain, Germany, and Italy, was intended to regulate the size and strength of their respective naval forces. This article will delve into the history of this naval agreement, its impacts, and its relevance to GCSE history.
Background
During the 1930s, Europe was still recovering from the devastation of World War I. Adolf Hitler had come to power in Germany, and his aggressive foreign policy was causing concern among other European nations. To prevent another war, many countries sought to negotiate treaties that would limit their military capabilities and ensure peace.
One such treaty was the naval agreement of 1935. It was signed on June 18, 1935, and aimed to regulate the naval arms race that was taking place between Britain, Germany, and Italy. The treaty allowed Germany to build a navy that was 35% of the size of the British navy, while Italy could build a navy that was 50% of the British navy. This meant that the three countries had agreed to limit their naval arms race and avoid conflict.
Impacts
The naval agreement of 1935 had several significant impacts. It gave Germany a sense of legitimacy and allowed them to expand their naval power without facing international condemnation. Moreover, it eased tensions between Britain and Germany, which had been at odds since the Treaty of Versailles. Some historians argue that it gave Hitler the confidence to pursue his aggressive foreign policy, which eventually led to World War II.
The agreement also had an impact on the British Empire. The treaty allowed Britain to avoid a costly naval arms race with Germany, which would have drained resources that were needed to maintain their global empire. It also gave Britain time to rearm and prepare for the looming threat of World War II.
Relevance to GCSE History
The naval agreement of 1935 is relevant to GCSE history because it played a significant role in the lead up to World War II. The treaty was an attempt to maintain peace between nations and avoid another devastating war. However, it ultimately failed to prevent the war and is seen as a missed opportunity to prevent the rise of Nazi Germany.
The naval agreement also highlights the complex alliances and tensions between nations during the inter-war period. It is a prime example of how treaties and agreements may have good intentions but can fail in practice.
Conclusion
The naval agreement of 1935 was a significant moment in history. It aimed to regulate the naval arms race in Europe, but its impacts were far-reaching. It gave Hitler the confidence to push his aggressive foreign policy, eased tensions between Britain and Germany, and allowed Britain to avoid a costly naval arms race. However, it ultimately failed to prevent World War II. For GCSE history students, the naval agreement of 1935 is a critical moment to understand in the context of the lead up to World War II.
