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As tensions rose in Europe during the late 1930s, it became abundantly clear that conflict was looming on the horizon. Adolf Hitler, having established a totalitarian regime in Germany, set his sights on expanding territory, fueled by beliefs outlined in his manifesto, "Mein Kampf." When Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939, Britain and France declared war, leading to an initial lull dubbed the "phony war," during which both sides fortified their military capacities.