Ethics Theory, TLP-UPSC Mains Answer Writing
Q. 13. Critically examine how the Treaty of Versailles marked the end of World War I but sowed the seeds for World War II. (250 words, 15 marks)
Introduction
The Treaty of Versailles (1919) formally ended World War I by imposing harsh terms on Germany. However, its punitive nature, political humiliation, and economic burdens became catalysts for instability and the rise of militarism in Europe.
Body
Harsh Provisions of the Treaty
- War Guilt Clause (Article 231): Held Germany solely responsible for the war, damaging national pride.
- Heavy Reparations: Germany was ordered to pay 132 billion gold marks, devastating its post-war economy.
- Territorial Losses: Loss of Alsace-Lorraine, Polish Corridor, and colonies fuelled resentment and revanchism.
- Military Restrictions: German army capped at 100,000; no air force or submarines allowed—crippling its defence.
- Dismantling Empires: Redrew Europe by dismantling Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman empires, creating unstable new states in Eastern Europe.
Political and Economic Fallout in Germany
- Economic Collapse: Reparations led to hyperinflation (1923) and mass unemployment, eroding faith in the Weimar Republic.
- Rise of Extremism: Humiliation and instability enabled the Nazi Party’s rise, promising revenge and revival.
- Loss of Trust in Democracy: Versailles symbolised betrayal to many Germans, weakening democratic legitimacy.
- Appeasement of Nationalism: German grievances were manipulated to justify militarisation, rearmament, and territorial expansion.
Seeds of World War 2
- Moral Bankruptcy of Peace: The treaty ignored Wilson’s principle of self-determination, leading to discontent in colonies and minority groups.
- Lack of Enforcement: League of Nations failed to check German violations due to weakness and U.S. absence.
- Lack of Vision: Unlike post-WWII settlement, Versailles lacked a vision for rehabilitating Germany into the global order.
- Revisionist Alliances: Axis powers like Germany, Italy, and Japan rose partly in reaction to post-WWI arrangements.
- Trigger of WWII: Germany’s invasion of Poland (1939) was a direct challenge to Versailles-imposed borders and terms.
Conclusion
The Treaty of Versailles ended World War I but its harsh terms created anger and instability, helping Hitler rise. After World War II, leaders avoided such punishment and focused on rebuilding to ensure lasting peace.
