Summary
The period from 1919 to 1924 was characterized by ongoing tensions due to territorial disputes, economic crises, and shifting power dynamics following World War I.
- Fiume Crisis — a diplomatic crisis over territorial control initiated by Italian nationalists. Example: Gabriele D'Annunzio seized Fiume, leading to international disputes.
- Corfu Incident — a diplomatic and military confrontation between Italy and Greece. Example: Italy bombarded Corfu after a border dispute.
- Ruhr Crisis — a conflict over reparations leading to Franco-Belgian occupation of the Ruhr. Example: Germany's failure to pay reparations prompted the occupation.
- Hyperinflation — extreme devaluation of currency in Germany due to economic policies. Example: The German mark became worthless, leading to social and political instability.
- Little Entente — a defensive alliance in Eastern Europe to maintain territorial settlements. Example: Czechoslovakia, Romania, and Yugoslavia formed the alliance.
- Washington Conference — an international meeting to discuss naval disarmament and Pacific security. Example: Major powers agreed on naval limitations and Pacific treaties.
- Rapallo Pact — a treaty between Germany and the USSR to normalize relations. Example: Germany and the USSR renounced mutual financial claims.
- Treaty of Lausanne — a treaty revising the Treaty of Sèvres, recognizing Turkish sovereignty. Example: It restored Turkey's borders and ended Allied occupation.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Fiume Crisis
- Corfu Incident
- Ruhr Crisis
- Hyperinflation
- Little Entente
- Washington Conference
- Rapallo Pact
- Treaty of Lausanne
Common Confusions
- Confusing the causes of the Ruhr Crisis with those of the Corfu Incident
- Misunderstanding the impact of hyperinflation on German society
Typical Exam Questions
- What was the significance of the Fiume Crisis? It highlighted nationalist tensions and the League's weaknesses.
- How did the Ruhr Crisis affect Franco-German relations? It increased tensions and demonstrated the need for reparations revision.
- Why was the Treaty of Lausanne significant? It showed that peace treaties could be revised through military resistance.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of the causes and consequences of key crises
- Ability to explain the impact of economic issues like hyperinflation
- Knowledge of how treaties and alliances affected international relations