This History video supports teachers in delivering a historically grounded and accessible lesson on the causes of the Second World War. The children explore key turning points from the Treaty of Versailles to Germany’s invasion of Poland, considering how decisions, compromises and consequences shaped global conflict. The lesson introduces economic, political, and social factors, helping the children understand how history connects to human behaviour and decision-making.

It provides context for complex events through straightforward, age-appropriate storytelling, supported by source materials such as photographs and extracts from Neville Chamberlain’s broadcast. Teachers are guided in supporting chronological understanding, introducing complex concepts such as appeasement and prompting discussion on leadership, fairness and the challenges of maintaining peace.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Second World War resources. It helps teachers guide the children in connecting the causes of the Second World War to broader themes of leadership, decision-making and the consequences of conflict, encouraging reflection on how difficult choices shape history and on the importance of learning from the past.

See more of our Year 6 History scheme of work.

• History, Year 6, *Updated* British history 6: What was the impact of World War 2 on the people of Britain? Lesson 1: Why did Britain go to war in 1939?
• History, Year 6, *Updated* British history 6:What was the impact of World War 2 on the people of Britain?
• History, Year 5/6 (A), *Updated* British history 6: What was the impact of World War 2 on the people of Britain? Lesson 1: Why did Britain go to war in 1939?
• History, Year 5/6 (A), *Updated* British history 6: What was the impact of World War 2 on the people of Britain?