Power and Authority - The search for peace and security in the world Flashcards
What was the primary aim of the Paris Peace Conference in 1919?
To rebuild post WW1, specifically propaganda and hatred towards enemy
The conference involved 32 countries but was dominated by the ‘Big Three’: Woodrow Wilson, George Clemenceau, and Lloyd George.
Who were the ‘Big Three’ leaders at the Paris Peace Conference?
- Woodrow Wilson (USA) * George Clemenceau (France) * Lloyd George (Britain)
Each leader had different objectives regarding the treatment of Germany.
What was Woodrow Wilson’s stance towards Germany after WW1?
Did not want to heavily penalise Germany in case they retaliated
This was seen as a significant moment of caution.
What did George Clemenceau want from Germany?
Revenge, weakening Germany’s economy and military
Clemenceau’s approach was driven by a desire for security after the war.
What did Lloyd George agree with Wilson on?
Prioritized peace but also wanted to penalise Germany
He had a more moderate approach compared to Clemenceau.
What were the key provisions of the Treaty of Versailles?
- Date: 29 June 1919 * Signed by: Germany * Terms of disarmament: 100,000 soldiers, six battleships, no air force * Reparations: 132 billion gold marks * Land lost: Posen, Polish corridor, Alsace-Lorraine, all colonies
The Treaty of Versailles imposed significant restrictions on Germany.
What were the disarmament terms set for Austria under the Treaty of Saint Germain?
- 30,000 volunteers * No navy
Reparations were agreed but never set, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire was dismantled.
What were the disarmament conditions for Hungary under the Treaty of Trianon?
- 35,000 volunteers * 3 patrol boats
The treaty also dismantled the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
What did the Treaty of Neuilly impose on Bulgaria?
- 20,000 volunteers * 4 torpedoes * No air force
Bulgaria was also required to pay reparations of 2.25 billion francs.
What were the military terms set for Turkey under the Treaty of Sevres?
- 50,000 soldiers * 7 sailboats * 6 torpedoes
The treaty was not accepted by Turkey, leading to increased nationalism.
Which country did not sign or ratify the Treaty of Versailles?
USA
The U.S. Congress did not ratify the treaty due to concerns over harsh penalties on Germany.
What was Britain’s position on the penalties imposed on Germany?
Misgivings about harsh penalties, did not support France’s efforts
Britain was concerned about the potential for future conflict.
What were Germany’s main complaints regarding the Treaty of Versailles?
- Unfair treatment * Forced to accept full responsibility for the war * Territorial losses: 13.5% and 7 million people * Economic hardship
These grievances contributed to the rise of Adolf Hitler.
What feelings did German citizens harbor towards the Weimar Republic post-Treaty of Versailles?
- Humiliation * Resentment * Bitterness
Many believed the Weimar Republic had betrayed them, leading to political instability.
What theory developed among radical nationalists in Germany?
Stab-in-the-back theory
This theory suggested that socialists and Jewish leaders had betrayed the German people.
What was Turkey’s reaction to the Treaty of Sevres?
Refused the treaty, leading to increased nationalism and revolution
This resulted in the return of all territories.
What was the USA’s response to the Versailles Treaty?
Did not sign or rectify it and did not want to impose harsh penalties on Germany
This indicates a subtle foreshadowing of future conflicts.
Why did the League of Nations fail in the USA?
Congress did not ratify it.
What was Britain’s stance on the penalties imposed on Germany?
Had misgivings about harsh penalties and did not support France’s efforts.
What was France’s main concern regarding Germany after the war?
Concerned about safety but wanted to punish Germany.
What happened to Italy regarding the peace treaties?
Initially a part of the negotiations but later left due to instability in government.
What were Germany’s biggest complaints about the Versailles Treaty?
- Forced to accept full responsibility for the war
- Territorial losses of 13.5% and 7 million people
- Being bankrupted.
Who rose to power in Germany partly due to the dissatisfaction with the Versailles Treaty?
Adolf Hitler.
