The Axis in WWII originated with Adolf Hitler, Fuhrer of Germany ( The Third Reich ) simply taking control of neighboring countries. People didn't stop him, because they wanted to avoid another World War, and we're also almost sorry for Germany due to the Treaty of Versailles. There were a few nations also allied with Germany at this time. Eventually the threat became so large, the Allies had to attack, but, by that time Germany had amassed a powerful army. This resulted in World War II.