The International Military Tribunal are the best known of the postwar war crimes trials. They formally opened in Nuremberg, Germany, on November 20, 1945, just six and a half months after Germany surrendered.

Introduction
The Treaty of Versailles, signed on June 28, 1919, officially ended World War I. It imposed several conditions on Germany, reshaping Europe and setting the stage for future conflicts.
Territorial Changes
- Germany lost significant territories:
- Alsace-Lorraine was returned to France.
- The Saar Basin was placed under League of Nations administration.
- Parts of Prussia were given to the newly formed Poland.
- Colonies were taken away and managed by the Allies.
Military Restrictions
- The German military faced severe limitations:
- The army was restricted to 100,000 troops.
- No conscription was allowed.
- The navy was limited to a few small ships, with no submarines.
- The production of tanks and aircraft was prohibited.
Reparations and Economic Consequences
- Germany was required to pay hefty reparations:
- The total bill was initially set at 132 billion gold marks.
- This strained the German economy, leading to hyperinflation and social unrest.
War Guilt Clause
- Article 231, known as the War Guilt Clause, held Germany responsible for the war:
- This clause served as a basis for reparations and was deeply resented by the German population.
League of Nations
- The Treaty established the League of Nations:
- Aimed to maintain peace and prevent future conflicts.
- Germany was initially excluded from membership.
Conclusion
The Treaty of Versailles significantly altered the political landscape of Europe, imposed harsh penalties on Germany, and contributed to the conditions that eventually led to World War II. Its legacy remains a subject of debate among historians.