Core Content 1: Were the peace treaties of 1919-23 fair? Flashcards
Why was the Great War known as the ‘War to End All Wars’?
The First World War was uniquely destructive, with a high death toll. It was far longer than most other wars and caused damage to many civilians.
What was the USA’s War experience like?
Declaring War in April 1917, the USA’s economy benefitted greatly. The country led troops into Europe in 1918 and entered for a variety of reasons.
What was Britain’s War experience like?
One of the main powers, Britain had a large army and navy; it was forced into battle when Germany invaded Belgium. Britain suffered great loss of casualties and managed to gain land in the Treaty of Versailles.
What was France’s War experience like?
France’s economy was ravaged and the War brought about large civilian and military casualties. Since French land was obliterated, the War had a long-lasting effect.
What was Japan’s War experience like?
Japan joined the Triple Entente in 1914 but only had a little role in the War for they had no real enemy. Japan came out of the War as a strong, rising power, having benefitted greatly on an economic scale.
What land did Germany lose in Europe?
Alsace-Lorraine was returned to France, along with the Saarland being put under the administration of the League of Nations. Eupen, Moresnet and Malmedy all became parts of Belgium; the port of Dareig was free and Memel was given to Lithuania in 1932.
In what way was the German reaction to the Treaty of Versailles justified?
It could be argued that Germany took no part in negotiations, meaning that having to accept full responsibility was unfair. There was a massive reduction in the size of German forces and the Treaty caused hyperinflation.
What challenges did the peacemakers face when redrawing the map of Eastern Europe and the Middle East?
New states were already emerging and the concept of self-determination posed a threat. The demands of emerging nations meant that many aims could not be met.
What were four issues faced by the peacemakers before the Paris Peace Conference?
War had exhausted all European powers and many countries had expected to receive rewards. War had been fought on a large scale and there was a fear of German uprising.
In what way was the German reaction to the Treaty of Versailles unjustified?
Germany’s reaction to the Treaty of Versailles was hypocritical due to Russia’s treatment in the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk. Very little fighting took place on German soil, meaning that Germany did not suffer like France and other nations. Many problems caused by the Treaty were self-inflicted.
How was the German hyperinflation of 1923 caused?
The German Government began printing money, meaning that money was worthless. Prices shot up, leaving many penniless.
What was the Ruhr Valley Invasion?
French and Belgian armies sent 60,000 troops to extract reparations since a second instalment had not been paid by Germany.
What was the Munich Putsch?
Led by Adolf Hitler, the Munich Putsch was caused by an accumulation of political assassinations. It was defeated.
What was the Kapp Putsch?
In 1920, the right-wing opponents to Ebert’s government attempted a revolution, called the Kapp Putsch, which was defeated by a general strike by Berlin workers, which paralysed essential services, such as power and transport - this only made the situation worse.
What was the League of Nations?
The League of Nations was an international organisation involved in resolving international disputes; acting as a police force, Germany was not invited to join.
