The Axis powers during World War II consisted of Germany, Italy, and Japan. These nations shared a common goal of expanding their territories and establishing their dominance in their respective regions.

Germany, led by Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party, sought to reclaim lost territories and create a Greater German Reich. Hitler's aggressive policies and military campaigns led to the invasion of Poland in 1939, which marked the start of the war in Europe.

Italy, under the leadership of Benito Mussolini and the Fascist Party, aimed to recreate the Roman Empire and establish control over the Mediterranean. Mussolini's forces invaded Ethiopia in 1935 and allied with Germany in 1936, forming the Rome-Berlin Axis.

Japan, led by Emperor Hirohito and the militaristic government, sought to secure resources and establish dominance in East Asia. Japan's expansionist policies led to the invasion of China in 1937 and their eventual alliance with Germany and Italy in the Tripartite Pact of 1940.