Final answer:
The punitive measures of the Treaty of Versailles after World War I led to economic hardship and national humiliation in Germany, facilitating the rise of totalitarian governments and political unrest that contributed to the start of World War II.
Step-by-step explanation:
The end of World War I contributed to the start of World War II primarily through the consequences of the Treaty of Versailles. Rather than leading to economic stability and averting future conflicts, it imposed punitive conditions on Germany, including hefty reparations, territorial losses, and military restrictions. These conditions facilitated the rise of totalitarian governments in Germany, as the economic hardships and national humiliation created fertile ground for Nazi propaganda. Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party capitalized on these grievances, promoting an aggressive agenda to reverse the Treaty's provisions, restore German pride, and expand its territory. This propelled Europe towards another conflict as territorial ambitions clashed with existing alliances.
Moreover, the Treaty of Versailles brought about significant changes in the European political order by breaking up empires and redrawing national boundaries, which led to instability in the region. Economic issues in Germany, such as hyperinflation and the Great Depression, further exacerbated the situation, resulting in widespread discontent. These factors combined to sow the seeds for political unrest and set the stage for the outbreak of World War II. Consequently, Hitler's rise to power and subsequent aggressive foreign policy directly challenged the post-World War I order and led to the outbreak of World War II. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is B) The rise of totalitarian governments due to the Treaty of Versailles led to political unrest.