# How did the Treaty of Versailles effect Germany?

Source: https://projectgcse.co.uk/history/treaty_of_versailles/how_did_the_treaty_of_versailles_effect_germany

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- 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.