In "In the Garden of Beasts," Erik Larson illustrates a pivotal moment in history when Adolf Hitler declared Germany's intention to exit the League of Nations along with a significant disarmament conference occurring in Geneva. This decision, which marked a clear step away from diplomatic engagement, occurred against the backdrop of growing tensions in Europe and foreshadowed the aggressive policies that Hitler would soon implement.

The withdrawal highlighted Germany's move towards isolationism and militarization, reflecting Hitler's ambition to reassert Germany's power on the global stage. Larson's narrative captures the atmosphere of fear and uncertainty in Berlin, as the consequences of such decisions began to ripple throughout Europe and set the stage for the impending conflict.