In what ways did the peace settlement with germany at the end of world war i make a new world war with germany more likely?

History · High School · Tue Nov 03 2020

Answered on

The peace settlement following World War I, primarily established by the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, contributed to making a new world war involving Germany more likely due to several key factors:

  1. Harsh Reparations: The treaty imposed heavy reparations on Germany, forcing the country to pay substantial amounts for war damages. These reparations strained Germany's economy and led to financial instability, social unrest and economic hardship among the German population. The perception of being unfairly treated by the treaty fostered resentment and a desire for revenge.
  2. Territorial Losses: Germany lost significant territories and colonies as a result of the treaty. This included the loss of Alsace-Lorraine to France, parts of Prussia to Poland and various other regions. The territorial losses were seen as a national humiliation and fueled sentiments of nationalism and the desire to reclaim lost territories.
  3. Demilitarization and Restrictions: The treaty imposed severe limitations on Germany's military capabilities, including reducing its army size, restricting the production of armaments, and demilitarizing certain regions. These measures were viewed as an infringement on national sovereignty and weakened Germany's ability to defend itself, contributing to a desire for rearmament.
  4. Humiliation and Resentment: The treaty's terms, particularly the War Guilt Clause that placed full blame for the war on Germany, were perceived as unjust and humiliating. The overall sentiment of being unfairly punished and isolated from the international community fueled resentment and a desire to overturn the treaty's conditions.

These factors collectively created an atmosphere of discontent, economic hardship and a desire for revenge within Germany. The conditions imposed by the Treaty of Versailles laid the groundwork for political instability, resentment, and a longing to restore Germany's status, setting the stage for the rise of extremist ideologies and ultimately contributing to the outbreak of World War II.