Treaty of Versailles, 1919

Overview

• World War I officially ended with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles on June 28, 1919.
• 32 countries attended the peace conference in Paris beginning January 1919.

The Big Three

• The conference was dominated by three main leaders:
  • David Lloyd George (Britain)
  • Georges Clemenceau (France)
  • Woodrow Wilson (USA)
• Germany was notably not invited to the conference.

Differing Goals

• The Big Three had conflicting views on how to treat Germany:
  • Woodrow Wilson
    • Opposed harsh punishment for Germany.
    • Aimed to prevent future wars through the League of Nations.
    • Based his approach on his Fourteen Points to ensure Germany's recovery and avoid blame for the war.
  • Georges Clemenceau
    • Advocated for the harshest measures, reflecting the devastation Germany caused France.
    • Demands included:
      • Revenge against Germany
      • Return of Alsace Lorraine to France
      • Creation of an independent Rhineland
      • No League of Nations
      • Huge reparations from Germany
      • Disbandment of the German Army
  • David Lloyd George
    • Held a middle-ground position, reflecting Britain's experience in the war.
    • Aimed for a punishment that:
      • Satisfied those seeking reparations
      • Allowed Germany to remain strong enough for trade
      • Safeguarded Britain's naval supremacy and empire.

Signing of the Treaty

• Once the Treaty was drafted, Germany was presented with the final document with no room for negotiation.
• On June 28, 1919, in the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles, two German representatives were forced to sign the Treaty.

Future Implications

• The next part will cover the specific terms of the Treaty of Versailles and its devastating impact on Germany's future.
• Further information can be found in other videos and on Amazon (Simple History – World War I).