War Ends

The German War Machine Germany faced troubles in 1918. A home front revolution forced the Kaiser to exile. A shortage of soldiers caused a mutiny in the Navy. U.S. entry proved to be too much for them. What is the Kaiser? Iron youth was gone Fresh troops and morale

Germany asks for an Armistice November 1918: Germany asked for an armistice. November 11, 1918: The fighting stopped (Armistice Day) The Allied Powers had won the Great War. An allied blockade of German ports continued until the treaty was signed. Where did we sign the Treaty? What is an armistice? What treaty? On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month

Peace Conference at Versailles

Versailles

The Peace Conference The Peace Conference was held in January of 1919, in Versailles, France. Major Participants: The Big Four Great Britain’s Prime Minister, David Lloyd George, sought a lot of money. Premier Georges Clemenceau of France sought revenge. Vittorio Orlando of Italy sought land. Which was already promised to them. United States’ President Wilson sought “Peace without Victory”. Who were in the Big Four? Money for what? Revenge for what? Peace without Victory?

Result? What resulted was a dictated Peace. Germany was not allowed inside, but hoped the peace would be based on Wilson’s plan.

The Treaty of Versailles June 28, 1919: The Treaty of Versailles is signed. This was a product of compromise. New independent nations formed in Europe. Empires were destroyed and ethnic groups were united. The League of Nations was formed to maintain peace and prevent future world wars. Wilson’s 14th point.

The Fighting Ends Germany was blamed and punished for World War 1 (War Guilt Clause) They were asked to pay $33 billion in reparations. They were also forced to give up large amounts of land. Massive disarmament left them with only a defensive army. What is the war guilt clause?

The Fighting Ends The Treaty was REJECTED at home despite Wilson’s efforts. Many feared the “League” was just another alliance. The U.S. never joined: It was rejected by the U.S. Senate in 1920. Most Americans desired isolationism. The U.S. made a separate peace treaty with Germany in 1921.

Results This treaty planted the seeds of German bitterness after WWI that allowed for Adolf Hitler to rise to power and begin WWII.