Final answer:
The appeasement policy of the 1930s was fueled by European desires to prevent another war, fears of communism, and the lack of military readiness. The Munich Agreement allowed Germany to annex parts of Czechoslovakia, assuming it would prevent further conflict. This policy ultimately failed when Hitler continued his aggressive expansion leading to World War II.
Step-by-step explanation:
The policy of appeasement by the French and British governments during the 1930s was largely driven by a desire to avoid another catastrophic war like World War I. Many Europeans were strongly opposed to war and the horror of the Great War still loomed in the collective memory of the population. Furthermore, after the economic and political instability following World War I, European leaders believed that meeting German demands for territory and military growth could satisfy Hitler's expansionist appetite and prevent another full-scale conflict.
Additionally, there was a strategic calculation involved. At the time, the Western powers were also concerned about the threat of communism and the Soviet Union. Some thought that a stronger Germany could serve as a bulwark against the Soviets. Britain and France's military preparedness was also in question, and they were unsure of American support due to its isolationist tendencies. Therefore, the policy of appeasement was also influenced by these geopolitical considerations.
The Munich Agreement is a prime example of appeasement in action, where Britain and France allowed the annexation of the Sudetenland in Czechoslovakia to Germany in hopes that this concession would satisfy Hitler and secure peace. Unfortunately, within months, Hitler broke his promises and continued his aggressive expansion, ultimately leading to the outbreak of World War II.