4. Japanese Invasion of Manchuria

In 1931 Japan invaded the Chinese province of Manchuria, sparking a decade-long conflict that would eventually lead to World War II. The invasion was condemned by the League of Nations but ultimately had little effect on curbing Japan’s ambitions in East Asia.

The Japanese forces occupied Manchuria and formed the puppet state of Manchukuo in 1932. This occupation created a buffer zone between Japan and the Soviet Union, giving Japan control over important resources such as oil and minerals. The invasion also served to expand Japan’s already large empire, allowing it to further its military ambitions in East Asia.