Japan faced many difficulties after World War I due to economic collapse, but it also achieved many achievements, including a stronger military due to the conquest of much of Asia and multiple social reforms for women and the working class. Along with Japan's exit from the League of Nations and joining the Axis power comes a shocking announcement that no one would have expected. Together with the nationalism that spreads, the rights of the Japanese increase. As well as strong leaders who fought wars and led people through the Great Depression. With all these ideas, Japan was ready to shock the world by entering World War II. Without Japan's achievements after World War I, the world would never have been shocked by the military strength or intelligence of its leaders. The Japanese army shocked the world when it debuted in World War II, but it all started after World War I. Japan increased its military strength by annexing Manchuria and conquering other Asian nations. The annexation of Manchuria led to great things in the military, including resources. “During the 1930s the region was transformed into a primary source of iron, steel and coal. These resources were useful to the Japanese economy and military forces” (Grolier Online). With these resources, the military manufactured weapons, armor, and vehicles. “During the 1930s, Manchuria was also transformed into a primary military base for the Japanese army” (Grolier Online). With the creation of a military base, Manchuria became a more valuable resource for Japan. As previously stated, Manchuria was not the only area conquered by Japan. In addition to Manchuria, Japan added China to its military force. Throughout the 1930s Japan was at war with China and eventually conquered it. In 1937, Japan gained… middle of paper… an alliance with Nazi Germany and Italy, joining the Axis powers” ​​(Streissguth 64-65). This alliance marked the beginning of Japan's role in World War II. Even though Japan had its struggles and achievements, it was still shocking that it would join the Axis powers. No one would expect Japan to join a major war like World War II, but Japan surprised everyone with its military strength and leadership. Japan could have accomplished everything less violently and could have been just as effective. Japan did not need to conquer China violently. Although Japan created a strong military by having resources such as “iron, steel and coal”. These resources helped create a strong army and shock the world with it. Furthermore, if it were not for all the reforms and ideas approved by the leaders, the Axis powers would not see the intelligence and pride of the Japanese soldiers.