Examine the reasons for, and the effects of, the initial Japanese victories in South-East Asia (1940–1942).

Candidates will consider the interrelationship between reasons for, and the impact of, the initial Japanese victories in South-East Asia. This does not include China or the Pacific islands. Reasons may predate the timeframe but they must be clearly linked to the question. Candidates may adopt a chronological approach that identifies the events leading up to the victories and beyond. Alternatively, candidates may choose a thematic approach and refer to aspects such as Japanese military superiority, the weakness of the colonial powers, the nature of the Japanese occupation, and the growth of independence movements in the occupied countries. The balance between the two parts of the question need not be equal but both will be addressed in an effective manner. While other, relevant, interrelationships such as Japanese domestic politics, international alliances, the war in Europe and the relationship with the US may be considered, the bulk of the response will remain on those raised in the question.