Impact of the Treaty of Versailles

• German people were horrified - the fact that they had to accept blame for starting the war lead to the huge reparation bill.
• Germany lost 10% of land, 12.5% population all overseas colonies and many raw materials.
• At first Germany refused to sign and sunk ships in protest.
• Economy was in a mess so reparations would cripple people.
• Army was a symbol of pride - felt it unfair no one else disarmed.
• Lost money as a result of loss of territories.
• Insulted that it wasn't invited to join the League of Nations.
• Germany felt not in keeping with Wilson's 14 points - self determination.
• Germany fell behind on reparations in 1922.
• 1923 French and Belgium troops took what was owed.
• German government ordered strike but French killed 100 workers.
• No goods so government printed more money à hyperinflation.
• Also criticised by big three: Clemenceau - not harsh enough.
• Wilson - disappointed and US didn't approve it.
• Lloyd George - received heroes welcome back but said it would lead to another war.