Mains Practice Questions

Approach

• Start your answer with a brief introduction about the Treaty of Versailles .
• Discuss the Significance of the Treaty of Versailles.
• Conclude accordingly.

Introduction

The Treaty of Versailles, signed in 1919, was a significant event in world history that shaped the post-World War I world order.

It was based on the principles of Woodrow Wilson’s 14 points speech (1918) which calls for self-government, international peace and security through overall disarmament. The treaty can be seen as a dictated peace treaty. Germans were not allowed to be part of the negotiations.

Body

The significance of the treaty was as follows:

• Redrawing of the Map of Europe:
  • The treaty redrew the map of Europe, creating new states and expanding the territories of others.
  • It forced Germany to cede its territory to Belgium, Czechoslovakia, Poland, and return Alsace and Lorraine to France.
• Formation of the League of Nations:
  • The treaty established the League of Nations, an international organization aimed at preventing future wars through collective security and disarmament.
• German Humiliation:
  • The treaty imposed harsh terms on Germany, including the acceptance of full responsibility for causing the war, payment of massive reparations, and severe restrictions on its military and economic power.
  • It called for Kaiser Wilhelm II, ruler of Germany, to stand trial for war crimes.
  • Above all, it included the “war guilt clause” which held Germany solely responsible for starting the war and required it to pay reparations for Allied war losses.
• Rise of Nationalism:
  • The treaty not only created a sense of nationalism and pride among the newly formed states, but also fueled resentment and a desire for revenge among the defeated powers.
  • This led to resentment and bitterness among the German people, setting the stage for the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party.
• Demilitarization:
  • Germany was forced to drastically reduce its armed forces to weaken its defence.

Conclusion

Overall, the Treaty of Versailles had a significant impact on shaping the post-World War I world order. The treaty was created more through fear and anger than forgiveness, compassion and a desire for rebuilding relationships and ensuring long lasting peace. A radical nationalism emerged in Europe as a result of the treaty of Versaille which manifested itself in the form of World War 2.