Treaty of Versailles

The Essay should be 5 pages, typed and double spaced. Focus your analysis on the content, which needs to include a clear thesis statement, evidence and facts that support the thesis, proper citation and a conclusion that summarizes your argument.

The Treaty of Versailles ended World War I, but many historians consider the treaty controversial because of its stipulations that may have led to the Great Depression and/or World War II.

1. Did the stipulations of the Treaty of Versailles “create” an environment in Europe that led to World War II, why or why not? Consider if/how specific articles influenced and shaped the political and social climate in Europe prior to the war and cite specific articles.

From the Treaty of Versailles focus on Articles 10 & 11 which deal with the League of Nations; Articles 51, 52, 81, 87 &116 which focus on German land cessions; Articles 159, 160, 173, 177 & 198 concerning German military forces and Articles 231 and 232 which deal with German reparations. As you look at the articles note that some deal with economic sanctions and matters while others deal with national sovereignty issues. Also review relevant information from Chapter 9 and the first part of Chapter 11 in the course text. Draft an essay that is chronologically event based that clearly demonstrates cause and effect linkage leading to the Depression and/or World War II that either supports or invalidates this notion. Within your essay discuss the overall status of the United States and major European nations in the post-World War I era with regard to social, economic, political and military conditions that may have influenced these events. Reference other pertinent documents, readings, maps, charts and graphs to support your position.