This day in history: Sept. 1, 1939, the Second World War began

On this day in history, September 1, 1939, the Second World War began. The war started when Germany invaded Poland. 

The invasion was a result of the signing of the Nazi-Soviet Non-Aggression Pact between Germany and Russia on August 23, 1939. 

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In a secret clause of the agreement, the ideological enemies agreed to divide
Poland between them. Hitler gave orders for the Poland invasion to begin on
August 26, but on August 25 he delayed the attack when he learned that Britain
had signed a new treaty with Poland.

Italy proclaimed its neutrality. Britain and France declared war against Germany two days later, while Canada followed suit on September 10th.