The Treaty of Versailles and Its Impact on Germany

These flashcards cover the key concepts of the Treaty of Versailles and its impact on Germany, providing critical questions and answers for review and study.

What were the key concepts of Wilson's Fourteen Point Proposal?

1. No secret treaties 2. Free Access to the seas 3. Free trade between countries 4. Disarmament 5. Self-determination for colonies 6. Leave Russia 7. Independence for Belgium 8. France regains Alsace-Lorraine 9. Adjusted Austrian-Italian frontier 10. Self-determination in Eastern Europe 11. Serbia access to the sea 12. Self-determination for the Turkish Empire 13. Serbia as an independent state 14. Establishment of the League of Nations.

What was the significance of article 231 in the Treaty of Versailles?

Germany accepted blame for causing all the loss and damage of the war.

What restrictions were placed on the German armed forces by the Treaty of Versailles?

Germany was limited to 100,000 troops, banned from submarines and aircraft, allowed only 6 battleships, and conscription was prohibited.

What economic penalties did Germany face as part of the reparations?

Reparations were set at £6.6 billion in 1921, which the German economy could not sustain.

What was the status of Alsace-Lorraine after the Treaty of Versailles?

Alsace-Lorraine was returned to France from Germany.

How did the Germans respond to the Treaty of Versailles?

They referred to it as a 'diktat' (dictated peace), feeling they were forced to accept the terms without negotiation.

What was hyperinflation and how was it related to the Treaty of Versailles?

Hyperinflation occurred when Germany printed more money to pay reparations, leading to a devaluation of currency and skyrocketing prices.

What was the Danzig Free City and why was it established?

Danzig was established as a free city to prevent it from becoming part of Germany while serving as a major port for Poland.

What political tension arose in Germany following the Treaty of Versailles?

There were left and right-wing political tensions, with opposition groups such as the Kapp Putsch and the Spartacists emerging.

What was one of the main criticisms of the Treaty of Versailles by John Maynard Keynes?

He criticized it for degrading millions of people and argued that reducing Germany to servitude would sow the decay of European civilization.