Topic 3 of 8 · Form 3
The peace settlements of 1919–1923
Saint-Germain (Austria), Trianon (Hungary), Neuilly (Bulgaria), Sèvres and later Lausanne (Turkey).
Notes for this topic 1 file, in order
Create a free account to download PDFs.
Aims of the peacemakers
- Clemenceau (France): punish Germany and ensure security.
- Wilson (USA): a fair peace based on the Fourteen Points and self-determination.
- Lloyd George (Britain): punish Germany but avoid revenge; protect trade and the empire.
The Treaty of Versailles (1919)
- Territory: Alsace-Lorraine to France, Polish Corridor, Saar under the League, colonies became mandates.
- Military: army limited to 100 000; no air force; Rhineland demilitarised.
- Financial: reparations (set at £6 600 million in 1921).
- War guilt clause (Article 231).
Other treaties
Saint-Germain (Austria), Trianon (Hungary), Neuilly (Bulgaria), Sèvres and later Lausanne (Turkey).
Reactions and assessment
German anger at the "diktat"; debates about whether the treaty was too harsh or too lenient, and its role in later conflict.
Exam tip: Use the "Big Three" aims to explain why the treaty was a compromise that satisfied no one fully.
Check yourself
- What was Article 231?
- Give two military terms of the Treaty of Versailles.
- Which peacemaker wanted the harshest treatment of Germany?
Show answers
- The war guilt clause, making Germany accept blame for the war.
- Any two: army of 100 000, no air force, no submarines, six battleships only, Rhineland demilitarised.
- Clemenceau.
Questions about this topic (0)
No questions about this topic yet.
Sign in or create a free account to join in.