Which factor is often cited as a cause of WWII in Europe?

The rise of totalitarian leaders is often credited as a significant contributing factor to the outbreak of World War II in Europe. During the interwar period, various nations faced economic instability and social unrest, leading to the emergence of authoritarian regimes. Figures such as Adolf Hitler in Germany and Benito Mussolini in Italy exploited these circumstances, promoting aggressive nationalism and militarism, which played a crucial role in escalating tensions across Europe.

These leaders aimed to expand their territories and assert dominance, often disregarding diplomatic resolutions. Their policies not only fostered militarization but also led to direct confrontations with other nations, ultimately paving the way for the war.

While the economic depression had substantial effects on societies and may have facilitated the rise of such leaders, it was their specific ideologies and ambitions that directly contributed to the conflict. Colonial conflicts and the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand, although historically significant, are not central to the causes of WWII in the same way that the rise of totalitarian regimes is.