What was the main outcome of the Treaty of Versailles?

The Treaty of Versailles was primarily aimed at concluding World War I and addressing the complexities that arose from it. One of its significant outcomes was the imposition of heavy reparations on Germany, which was held responsible for the war. This treaty drastically altered the political landscape of Europe; it not only ended hostilities but also restructured national boundaries and influenced the futures of various nations.

The reparations inflicted hardship on the German economy, which contributed to a sense of humiliation and resentment among the German population. These feelings were pivotal in shaping the political climate in Germany during the interwar period and ultimately facilitated the rise of extremist movements, such as the Nazis, which contributed to the outbreak of World War II.

While the Treaty of Versailles did establish some international frameworks, like the League of Nations, it was not the foundation of the United Nations, as the latter was created after World War II. The treaty did not initiate World War II either; rather, it contributed indirectly by fostering conditions that led to it. Furthermore, while the treaty did redefine European boundaries, it was not the predominant outcome attributed to it compared to the conclusion of World War I and the reparations imposed on Germany.