The Treaty of Versailles

Woodrow Wilson of America had the most reasonable plan for post-war Europe. Many Americans had seen the United State’s involvement in the war as unnecessary, and that little had changed in Europe after the war. Wilson’s most noted contribution to the treaty were the “14 Points”, through which Wilson calls for open diplomacy, freedom of the seas, removal of trade barriers and reduction of armaments in support of his central attempt to address the world’s problems. These were ultimately to lead to the League of Nations, which Wilson had a major part in forming; during the signing of the treaty America went into isolation and refused to join the League anyway or even sign the treaty. This was partly to remain on good terms with all of Europe rather than joining with the victors, leaving America with more countries to trade with. Other aims for Wilson were self-determination for Eastern Europe and leaving Germany and her economy intact. Out of the three, America was the least harsh on Germany, seeing mercy for the country as the only way to avoid another war in Europe.

America was disheartened with the outcome of the treaty, which was obviously one of the reasons that they refused to sign it. Not all of Wilson’s fourteen points actually got into the treaty, and Germany was never even invited to the Palace, so there was no chance of it ever being a complete “peace treaty”. Although America probably softened the treaty, stopping Clemenceau from being overly harsh on Germany, the nation as a whole was unsatisfied with the treaty.

In conclusion, it would be fair to say that none of the Big Three were completely satisfied with the treaty, as each of them had problems that weren’t resolved completely. George Clemenceau was satisfied with clause 231, the disarmament clauses of the Treaty, getting back Alsace-Lorraine, and being given Germany colonies on behalf of the League of Nations. However, he was unhappy that France got the Saar coalfields for only 15 years, and he was angry that the Rhineland was merely demilitarised. France had wanted the Rhineland made into a powerless independent country, and Germany split up. Also, reparations were not high enough for Clemenceau. He wanted reparations so high that Germany would be crippled and paying for. The Treaty also dissatisfied Lloyd-George; although he liked the reduction of the German navy, ensuring that Britain would rule the sea. However, he opposed the inclusion of the League of Nations and self-determination, thinking it was unrealistic and would cause problems in the future. His predictions of another war were accurate. Wilson agreed with the self-determination and a League of Nations, but felt let down because few of his fourteen points were included.

The treaty was a compromise between three conflicting groups, and so didn’t wholly satisfy anyone. However, some of their aims were achieved. It is obvious that the three benefited at least a little from the treaty, receiving land and some compensations for the damage done to them during the war. It could be argued that the Treaty left many tensions in Europe, and so did not fill its purpose as a peace agreement.