What was the Non-Aggression Pact?

The Non-Aggression Pact, specifically the one signed in 1939 between Germany and the Soviet Union, was fundamentally an agreement to avoid conflict between the two countries. By entering this pact, both nations pledged not to attack each other or support any third party that would do so. This agreement was significant because it allowed Germany to invade Poland without fear of Soviet intervention, effectively marking the beginning of World War II in Europe.

The context surrounding this agreement also demonstrates its importance in the geopolitical landscape of the time. The pact was surprising since Germany, led by Adolf Hitler, and the Soviet Union, under Joseph Stalin, were seen as ideological enemies. However, this pragmatic arrangement allowed both powers to expand their territories and influence without direct conflict between themselves.

This understanding clarifies why the other options do not accurately describe the Non-Aggression Pact. While some treaties may indeed focus on trade or military alliances against other nations, the essence of the Non-Aggression Pact was specifically its commitment to non-hostility between Germany and the Soviet Union, making option B the correct choice.