What was 'appeasement'? - World War 1 and 2 - Year 6

Appeasement was a significant political strategy prior to World War II, primarily associated with British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, who led the country from 1937 to 1940. The policy of appeasement involved making concessions to potential aggressors, particularly Nazi Germany, in the hope of maintaining peace and avoiding conflict. Chamberlain's approach was one of negotiation and compromise, which he believed would prevent another devastating war. This stance, however, was not universally accepted; Winston Churchill, who later became Prime Minister, was a notable critic of appeasement, arguing that it would only encourage further aggression from dictators like Adolf Hitler.

The impact of appeasement and its effectiveness as a policy is a topic of debate, often explored through historical resources such as documentaries and educational programmes. For instance, students might be directed to watch specific BBC Bitesize internet links to gain a deeper understanding of the events surrounding Chamberlain's appeasement policy, including the Munich Conference where parts of Czechoslovakia were ceded to Germany. After engaging with these resources, students could be encouraged to discuss in groups the merits and drawbacks of Chamberlain's actions. They would consider whether the policy was a practical approach to maintaining peace or if it was a misguided and cowardly strategy that failed to confront the looming threat of war. The legacy of appeasement and the contrasting views of Chamberlain and Churchill provide a rich context for exploring the complex prelude to World War II and the impact of both world wars on Britain.