During World War II, both Germany and Japan experienced a rise in power as they conquered vast territories and engaged in aggressive military campaigns. Germany, under the leadership of Adolf Hitler, quickly overran much of Europe, establishing a powerful and expansive empire. Japan, under its militaristic government, similarly expanded its influence in Asia through brutal campaigns in China and Southeast Asia. However, as the war dragged on, both countries began to face significant setbacks. Germany's invasion of the Soviet Union ultimately proved disastrous, leading to a long and costly war on the Eastern Front. Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor drew the United States into the conflict, ultimately leading to its defeat and occupation. These defeats marked the beginning of the end for both Germany and Japan, as they were eventually forced to surrender and undergo significant political and social changes in the post-war period. While Japan was able to rebuild and become a prosperous and democratic nation, Germany faced a long process of de-Nazification and reconstruction.
