The Treaty of Versailles left the country of Germany in terrible shape. Conditions forced by the treaty
were nothing like what the Germans expected. They were thinking the terms would be similar to
President Wilson’s fourteen points but since Germany had no say in the treaty, they had no option but to
agree to the circumstances.
The harsh and punishable conditions imposed on Germany by the Treaty of Versailles left the nation
humiliated and largely in debt. Feelings of resentment brewed within the German people. Germany
found itself in a very low place with no friends. It was then that Adolf Hitler was able to rise to power.
Hitler would quickly become a byproduct (able to come to be due to the existence of something else) of
the Treaty of Versailles.
Totalitarian Leaders
Totalitarian leaders usually rise from economic or social uncertainty. They make promises and appeal to
the emotions of the people. Hitler was successful at becoming one of the world’s greatest dictators
because he was able to reverse the economic struggles. He created jobs, rebuilt the economy and made
living conditions better, he even built the first national railroad.
In order for a totalitarian leader to stay in power, they need a group that is feared, hated or envied. In
Germany, anti-democratic attitudes were at an all-time high. Hitler took advantage of the vulnerable low
situation Germany was in to unite and promote his Nazi party. If it hadn’t been for the harsh conditions
of the treaty, Hitler may have never rose to power, and perhaps there never would have been a World
War II. The Treaty of Versailles is significant for this very reason that it laid the platform for WWII.

Was the Treaty of Versailles Effective in Creating
Conditions for Peace Following World War I?
1. Do you believe Germany should have been given such harsh punishments?


Why or why not?



2. Why was the Treaty of Versailles ineffective in promoting world peace?




3. If you helped draft the Treaty what would you have done differently that you think
would be fair, or helpful for the world after World War I? PLEASE HELP I WILL MARK BRAINLEST AND 100 POINTS included passage