What ideas sparked the rise of different nationalist leaders after WW1?

The ideas that fueled the rise of nationalist leaders after World War 1 were mostly similar in nature. The leaders often advocated for the rebuilding of their countries and the need to make them stronger. This turned the particular countries, under such leaders, into police/military states.

World War 1 caused major destruction in different parts of the European continent. The effects were still felt years later, especially, in Germany. Germany was accused of instigating and...

The ideas that fueled the rise of nationalist leaders after World War 1 were mostly similar in nature. The leaders often advocated for the rebuilding of their countries and the need to make them stronger. This turned the particular countries, under such leaders, into police/military states.

World War 1 caused major destruction in different parts of the European continent. The effects were still felt years later, especially, in Germany. Germany was accused of instigating and starting the war, to this effect, the nation was forced to take full responsibility for the war. The country was penalized through reparations, territorial restrictions, and weakening of their defense forces. Citizens viewed these penalties as punitive and leaders such as Adolf Hitler were displeased with the situation.

Hitler rose to power on the promise to restore Germany’s strength and guaranteed the nation’s survival. His message resonated well with that of the people and he eventually assumed dictatorial powers in Germany leading up to World War 2. 

In Italy, Benito Mussolini rose to power with the promise of uniting Italians in Austria-Hungary and Italy. He developed a private army that secured his reign in Italy.

In summary, the ideas of the nationalist leaders after WW1 were to;

• Strengthen the economy in their country


• Restore the nations’ sense of pride


• Enhance security and defense through a robust police and military force


• Demonize opposing nations while at the same time distancing their countries from international/regional blame


• Maintain unity among their citizens


• The leaders also offered to stop or prevent the growth of communism that was fueled by a poor economy


• They also promised the return of their previously held territories and an expansion of their existing national boundaries