Final answer:
The Treaty of Versailles led to WWII due to its harsh penalties on Germany, economic hardship, and the rise of Hitler. The failure of international peace efforts, including the policy of appeasement, further contributed to World War II.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Treaty of Versailles imposed harsh penalties on Germany after World War I, with significant repercussions that contributed to the onset of World War II. Harsh penalties, including a massive indemnity, the loss of territories such as Alsace-Lorraine, and a restrictive military provision, led to economic hardships and national resentment in Germany. The resultant economic issues, such as hyperinflation and a depressed populace, paved the way for the rise of the National Socialists and their leader Adolf Hitler, who capitalized on the public's discontent.
World War I had devastating effects on the economies of Europe, leading to efforts to prevent future global wars through the establishment of organizations like the League of Nations. However, the United States's rejection of the Treaty of Versailles and return to isolationism weakened international efforts for peace. The policy of appeasement, where Western democratic governments allowed Hitler to defy the Treaty's provisions by rebuilding a modern army and introducing compulsory military service, eventually contributed to the onset of World War II.
Overall, the Treaty of Versailles's focus on punitive measures rather than rehabilitation and cooperation among nations set the stage for further conflict and undermined the potential success of collective security and peacekeeping efforts during the interwar period.