-
Treaty of Versailles signed with Germany
The Treaty of Versailles formally ended World War I, imposing heavy reparations on Germany and redefining European borders. It created the League of Nations, aiming to maintain peace through collective security. This is significant as it symbolizes the dissatisfaction with peace settlements, as many nations felt the punitive measures would lead to future conflicts. -
Formation of the League of Nations
The League of Nations was established with the goal of preventing future conflicts and fostering international cooperation. Though ambitious, its effectiveness was soon questioned due to the absence of major powers like the U.S. This event underscores the high international tensions as countries struggled to adapt to post-war realities. -
Aaland Islands Dispute
The League intervened in the dispute between Sweden and Finland over the Aaland Islands, ultimately deciding in favor of Finland. This marked one of the League's early successes in mediation, illustrating its potential but also revealing the limitations of its authority in resolving disputes. -
Corfu Crisis
Italy occupied the Greek island of Corfu after the murder of an Italian general, prompting Greece to appeal to the League. The League’s failure to act decisively highlighted its inability to enforce its resolutions, generating disappointment in international diplomacy. -
Dawes Plan
The Dawes Plan restructured Germany's reparations payments and aimed to stabilize its economy. The plan was crucial in improving German relations with other nations and attempting to foster stability in Europe. It illustrates attempts to alleviate tensions post-Treaty of Versailles. -
Locarno Conference
Major powers signed agreements to secure borders and promote peace in Western Europe, facilitating Germany's acceptance into the international community. The Conference aimed to establish a sense of stability, showing that diplomatic efforts were made to reduce tensions. -
Germany joins the League of Nations
Germany's admission was a significant step toward integrating it into the international system. It represented a shift in perceptions about Germany post-World War I, which is notable in understanding how relations evolved during the 1920s. -
Kellogg-Briand Pact
A declaration signed by numerous countries renouncing war as a tool of national policy. While it was a significant moral statement, the pact had no real enforcement mechanisms, showcasing the limitations of international agreements in addressing global tensions. -
Great Depression begins
The onset of the Great Depression impacted global economies and international relations drastically. The economic turmoil heightened nationalism, leading to increased tensions and setting the stage for future conflicts, emphasizing the fragility of peace achieved through diplomatic means. -
Young Plan
The Young Plan aimed to reduce Germany's reparations payments and set a new timeline. This plan was notable in enhancing cooperation among nations but also illustrated the ongoing struggles with the financial burdens placed on Germany.