What was one of the primary outcomes of the Treaty of Versailles?

One of the primary outcomes of the Treaty of Versailles was the reparations paid by Germany. This treaty was signed at the end of World War I in 1919 and aimed to hold Germany accountable for its role in the war. The reparations were designed to compensate the Allied nations for the damages and expenses incurred during the conflict. This significant financial burden contributed to the economic hardships in Germany during the subsequent years, leading to widespread social unrest and ultimately to political instability, which was a catalyst for World War II.

The idea of reparations was central to the punitive measures imposed by the Allied powers, particularly France and Britain, who sought to limit Germany's capacity to wage war in the future. The specifics regarding the amount of reparations and their impact were deeply contentious, influencing not just Germany’s economy but also its national psyche, contributing to a sense of humiliation and injustice that fueled nationalist sentiments.

In contrast, the other options represent outcomes that were not relevant in the context of the Treaty of Versailles. The formation of the United Nations occurred later, following World War II, in 1945, intending to foster international cooperation and prevent future conflicts. An increase in German territory is inaccurate, as the treaty resulted in territorial losses for Germany, including areas like Als