Article
1/22/2021

How did the Treaty of Versailles effect Germany?

  • German people were horrified - the fact that they had to accept blame for starting the war lead to the huge reparation bill.
  • Germany lost 10% of land, 12.5% population all overseas colonies and many raw materials.
  • At first Germany refused to sign and sunk ships in protest.
  • Economy was in a mess so reparations would cripple people.
  • Army was a symbol of pride - felt it unfair no one else disarmed.
  • Lost money as a result of loss of territories.
  • Insulted that it wasn't invited to join the League of Nations.
  • Germany felt not in keeping with Wilson's 14 points - self determination.
  • Germany fell behind on reparations in 1922.
  • 1923 French and Belgium troops took what was owed.
  • German government ordered strike but French killed 100 workers.
  • No goods so government printed more money - hyperinflation.
  • Also criticised by big three:
  • Clemenceau - not harsh enough.
  • Wilson - disappointed and US didn't approve it.
  • Lloyd George - received heroes welcome back but said it would lead to another war.