The Treaty of Versailles

The Treaty of Versailles

The Treaty of Versailles, signed in June 1919, formally ended World War One, following the armistice on November 11th. It significantly impacted Germany and the geopolitical landscape of Europe.

Territorial Reductions and Demilitarization

Germany experienced a 13%13\% reduction in its territory. The Rhineland was demilitarized, meaning Germany was prohibited from stationing military forces in this region.

Creation of New Countries

Germany had land taken to create the countries of Poland, Czechoslovakia and Hungary out of the old Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Military Restrictions

The Treaty imposed strict limitations on the German military:

  • The army was capped at 100,000100,000 soldiers.

  • Germany was forbidden from having an air force.

  • The navy was limited to six battleships, with a ban on submarines.

League of Nations

The League of Nations was established as an organization intended to resolve international disputes peacefully. Although US President Wilson signed Treaty the US Congress (parliament) would not confirm it into law.

Article 231: War Guilt Clause

Article 231 of the Treaty of Versailles, often called the "War Guilt Clause," forced Germany to accept full responsibility for starting World War One.

Reparations

Germany was obligated to pay 6.66.6 Billion dollars in compensation to Britain and France. Additionally, France received 48%48\% of Germany's steel production and 16%16\% of its coal.

Loss of Colonies

Britain took control of Germany's colonies, including Cameroon, Tanzania, and Samoa.