Many historians have traced the causes of World War II to problems left unsolved by World War I (1914-1918). World War I and the treaties that ended it also created new
political and economic problems. Forceful leaders in several countries took advantage of these problems to seize power. The desire of dictators in Germany, Italy, and Japan to
conquer additional territory brought them into conflict with the democratic nations.
After World War I ended, representatives of the victorious nations met in Paris in 1919 to draw up peace treaties for the defeated countries. These treaties, known as the
Peace of Paris, followed a long and bitter war. They were worked out by these countries with opposing goals; and failed to satisfy even the victors. Of all the countries
on the winning side, Italy and Japan left the peace conference most dissatisfied. Italy gained less territory than it felt it deserved and said it would take action on its own.
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