Leading up to world was 2 the major countries of the acis powers were characterized by

The Axis was an alliance between the countries of Germany, Italy, and Japan prior to World War II. These nations agreed to fight against the Allies.

The alliance was initially proposed by Germany. Both countries found Germany's plan suited their expansionary interests, as Italy had interests in Northern Africa and Japan wanted to exercise control over Southeast Asia.

the answer is expolration. hope this !