Case Study – Versailles: The Allies “Last Horrible Triumph” Questions And Answers

1. According to the authors of Germany’s complaint, how will various provisions of the treaty hurt Germany’s economy?

The signing of Treaty of Versailles ended the World War I, but the Treaty was not working in the favor of Germany. The Treaty of Versailles put the blame on Germany for the damages and destruction witnessed during the war. According to the author of Germany’s complain, the Treaty of Versailles intended impose penalty to the Germany(German Delegation, 1919). As a result, the German society was not pleased with the decision of Treaty of Versailles, since they felt that they were not solely responsible for the destructions and damages(Sharp, 2014). The Treaty over looked some facts. Even after President Wilson had indicated that no single fact caused the war, but analysis showed that whole European system was responsible for the war, the Treaty concluded that Germany was responsible and imposed the penalty(Sharp, 2014). Specifically, the Treaty hurts Germany economy since the Germany resources force and power was taken away, hence weakening the economy of the country due to endless reparation. In addition, the Treaty denied the country essential infrastructures such as canals, railroads and treasures needed to boost the development of industries(German Delegation, 1919). In one way or another the Treaty was injuring the economy of the country and inhibits the growth(German Delegation, 1919). Germany should have been on the list of League of Nations or, at least, should have been invited to be a member of the League.

2. In Germany’s view, how would the country have been treated differently if the principles they attribute to President Wilson had been applied?

President Wilson’s theory stated that the primary right of each nation is the principle of self-determination and self-preservation(German Delegation, 1919). But in this case this right did not apply for Germany in the Treaty. According to the author, the Europe would have been in peace if these principles were observed and country was accorded same equality and respect(German Delegation, 1919). The Germany would have been allowed to run its affairs without suffocations from allied countries. As a result, the Burdon of unlimited rearmament to pay for would not have been there. The principle of self-determination and self-preservation gives each country freedom to define her political course without the control by other nations(German Delegation, 1919). Therefore, if the Treaty of Versailles would follow the vision of President Wilson, Germany hadn’t lost their power, colonies, assets, forces, military and territory. Millions of Germany wouldn’t be separated from their native country and Treaty could allow Germany’s involvement and participation.

3. To what higher “fundamental laws” does the document appeal to in order to strengthen German assertions?

In order to strengthen German assertion, the justice of the fundamental law should be practice. It also provides the authority to self-protect the Germany from any harm and destruction as well as, provide the ability to Germany to control its allegiance without any outside or foreign influence(German Delegation, 1919). This fundamental law could protect Germany from losing their overseas colonies because of the right to self-determination; however, the Treaty misuse their power and neglect the natural right of inalienable(Sharp, 2014). The document expresses the civil right, opportunity, and tolerance of the German people.

4. Do you agree with the authors of the document that Germany was being poorly treated? What response to their complaints might defenders of the treaty have made?

Yes, Germany were being poorly and unfairly treated by Treaty. When the World war one occurred, all of the European countries were overwhelm and devastated. Economy conditions were extremely bad, institutions were destroyed and millions of people were dead. Even though Germany was partially responsible for the damages in the war didn’t deserve to be broken down in pieces such as Alsace-Lorraine, Memel and Danzig(Sharp, 2014). They lose their future and their security in their own nation.  Germans were dominated and made inferior to the other power of European country. Germany was humiliated and stripped everything away from them which lead to dictatorship. Hitler, the dictator of Germany settled the economy problem and manage the political situation.

Get Your Custom Paper From Professional Writers. 100% Plagiarism Free, No AI Generated Content and Good Grade Guarantee. We Have Experts In All Subjects.