The Treaty of Versailles, signed in 1919 at the end of World War I, has been widely debated as either a forward-looking document aimed at ensuring peace and stability, or a backward-looking one that sought to punish Germany for its role in the war. Some argue that the treaty's harsh terms, including territorial losses and heavy reparations, fueled resentment in Germany and contributed to the rise of Adolf Hitler and the start of World War II. Ultimately, the Treaty of Versailles is seen as a complex document that had both forward and backward-looking elements, with its legacy shaping international relations for decades to come.
