Versailles to War: Germany's Path

The Treaty of Versailles and its Impact on Germany Understanding the Road to World War II Year 9 History

The Treaty of Versailles: Key Terms

Signed on 28 June 1919 at the Palace of Versailles Article 231: 'War Guilt Clause' - Germany accepts full responsibility Massive reparations: 132 billion gold marks (equivalent to £284 billion today) Military restrictions: Army limited to 100,000 men, no air force Territorial losses: Alsace-Lorraine to France, Polish Corridor created

Germany's Territorial Losses 1919

Economic and Political Consequences

{"left":"Hyperinflation crisis by 1923\nUnemployment soared to 6 million\nGerman currency became worthless\nPeople needed wheelbarrows of money for bread","right":"Political instability and frequent government changes\nRise of extremist parties on left and right\nGermans felt humiliated and betrayed\nResentment toward the 'November Criminals'"}

Connecting the Dots: Path to War

THINK: How might these harsh conditions lead to future conflict? PAIR: Discuss with your partner - what emotions would Germans feel? SHARE: How could economic desperation change politics? Consider: What happens when people lose hope in democracy?