The Versailles treaty had an amazing affect on the future of all the countries in Europe that were a part of World War One. However, the treaty had the most devastating affect on the future of Germany. The treaty of Versailles essentially made the German people entirely responsible for the First World War. This blame that was put on Germany was one of the main factors responsible for Germany’s economic and political future, leading up to World War Two.

Because France blamed Germany for the First World War, they forced them to pay for all of the damages that was considered their fault. This was extremely demoralizing to the economics in the country, because Germany had to basically pay for the entire war, which caused Germany to plunge deeply into debt. According to articles 159-187, Germany not only had to pay off their debt, but also had to pay off the debt that Belgium had to the allies. The article also stated that Germany was expected to pay reparations for casualties, that were to be paid to the families of the deceased, they had to pay for all non-military damages, and all the ship that were destroyed at the hands of the Germans. The French also took total control over the Saan Busin, and controlled all of the coal deposits and the railroad systems. This was devastating to the future of Germany because there was no feasible way that the Germans could repay this debt entirely.

Not only was Germany forced to pay ridiculous debts, but the treaty of Versailles was also caused Germany to lose large portions of their land. According to articles 31 - 50, Germany was forced to give back all of the land they took from Belgium. They were also required to return Luxenberg and Alsace Lorain. This was devastating to the future of Germany because without their land, they could not expand their empire. Germany’s economic future was put into danger because they could no longer trade with members of the allied party.

The Versailles treaty was also responsible for the political problems the country faced after World War One. The treaty stated, in articles 42-44 that Germany was not allowed to have any armed forces and if this rule were not followed, it would be considered a hostile action. France had almost complete control over the German states. Article 304, in the treaty stated there would be a “mixed article tribunal”, which was between Germany and two allied powers, whose purpose would be to answer questions about previous treaties and appoint and replace members of the tribunal. The tribunal had the power to choose what languages were spoken in certain German states, and if another court went against any idea of the tribunal, a trial would be set. This tribunal, and complete French control, was devastating to the Germans, because it stripped them completely of their political pride and made it unable for them to rebuild their politics.

The treaty of Versailles was devastating to the Germans because it left the country poverty-stricken and hopeless. After this treaty was signed and placed into effect, Germany was so desperate for a strong political leader, to rebuild their country and pull them out of debt, that it is no wonder why Germany received someone like Hitler with open arms, and it is no surprise that Germany had the economic and political problems they had during World War One.

Word Count: 572