Why Would Anyone Want to Appease Hitler?

In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck discuss the policy of appeasement leading up to World War II, focusing on how the Western allies, particularly the UK and France, allowed Germany to expand its territories in the hope of avoiding war. They explore the motivations behind appeasement, including the desire to prevent another devastating war, the economic constraints of rearmament, and the political dynamics within the allied countries. The conversation covers key events such as the Anglo-German naval agreement, the remilitarization of the Rhineland, the annexation of Austria, and the Munich Agreement, highlighting how these actions ultimately emboldened Hitler and made war more likely. They also consider alternate histories, such as earlier intervention or a potential alliance with the Soviet Union, and discuss the role of key figures like Neville Chamberlain, Winston Churchill, and Franklin D. Roosevelt.