War chronicle · Post War · Versailles, France
Peace at last?
Germany pays harshly for the war – but are the demands too high?
The Paris Peace Conference runs for over a year and involves the leaders of 55 Allied countries and associated powers, including New Zealand’s prime minister, William Massey.
While the Americans favour being generous towards their defeated enemies, the French insist on the most severe terms possible, especially regarding Germany. The British position lies somewhere in the middle.
Five treaties are eventually signed. The Treaty of Versailles between the Allies and Germany is a typical one. Germany loses all of its overseas colonies and large portions of its European territory. Severe restrictions are placed on the size and capabilities of its military. And huge financial reparations must be paid. The Germans are also forced to accept the so-called ‘war guilt’ clause – admitting sole responsibility for starting the war.
Almost immediately, resentment over the ‘unjust’ treaty – and calls for revenge – emerge in Germany.
Has the Versailles treaty secured peace? Or has it merely sowed the seeds for future conflict?