Stern but Just Is this a fair judgment of the peace settlements of the First World
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Mikhael Naayem
History Essay
"Stern but Just." Is this a fair judgment of the peace settlements of the First World War?
The Treaty of Versailles, signed the 29th June 1919, is one of the most arguable and debated subjects of the 20th century. Many public figures and critics, such as Keynes, had judged this treaty as scandalous and unfair towards Germany. This treaty created discontent people all over the world; not only was Germany crying scandal, France was dissatisfied and so was the United States. Modern historians now have a more moderate view of this treaty; some saying it was a reasonable treaty. "Stern but just", would be an adequate way to describe some of modern historians view on this treaty. In this short essay, this quote will be observed and debated; by firstly, looking the reasons why this treaty may have been unjust and then justifications for this quote will be observed.
One of the greatest criticisms of the Treaty of Versailles is the overwhelming burden of immense reparations implied on Germany, which had to be paid to all Entante powers. In fact, Germany had to pay reparations which amounted to 11 000 million pounds, half of which had to be paid in cash...