WORLD HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -The treaty’s so-called “war guilt” clause forced Germany and other Central Powers to take all the blame for World War I. This meant a loss of territories, reduction in military forces, and reparation payments to Allied powers.

Detailed explanation-2: -The Treaty of Versailles, signed following World War I, contained Article 231, commonly known as the “war guilt clause, ‘’ which placed all the blame for starting the war on Germany and its allies.

Detailed explanation-3: -During 1919 to 45 most German historians blamed Russia, or Britain, or France, while deeming Germany largely innocent. Historians outside Germany generally viewed the war as an accident, for which all the European powers deserved blame.

Detailed explanation-4: -Most importantly, Article 231 of the treaty, better known as the “war guilt clause, ‘’ forced Germany to accept full responsibility for starting World War I and pay enormous reparations for Allied war losses.

Detailed explanation-5: -Germany and its allies were known as the Central Powers: Germany and Austria-Hungary, later joined by the Ottoman Empire (Turkey plus the Middle East) and Bulgaria.

Detailed explanation-6: -Initially, France-who was represented by George Clemenceau-wanted to punish Germany for the war they felt the Germans had caused. France wanted to regain its territory in the Rhineland. Great Britain sought reparations, or payments for damages, from Germany.