In what major way did the Great Depression influence global politics?

The Great Depression significantly influenced global politics by fostering the rise of totalitarian regimes. During this period of economic turmoil, many countries struggled with widespread poverty, unemployment, and social unrest. In the face of such crises, disillusioned populations often turned to radical political solutions that promised stability, order, and a return to prosperity.

Totalitarian regimes, characterized by centralized power and the suppression of political dissent, emerged as leaders exploited these conditions. Notable examples include the rise of Adolf Hitler in Germany and Benito Mussolini in Italy, where these leaders leveraged public discontent to accumulate power and implement their authoritarian policies. In many cases, the failure of democratic governments to effectively address economic challenges led citizens to favor these more extreme forms of governance.

The other options reflect various global consequences of the Great Depression, but they do not encapsulate the profound political shift toward totalitarianism that was a hallmark of this period. The increase in international cooperation did occur as nations sought to manage economic difficulties, yet it was often overshadowed by the assertion of authoritarian rule in many countries.