What attributes of the Versailles settlement contributed to the outbreak of World War II by weakening the interwar political order in Europe? A. The transfer of territory from Germany that ultimately strengthened the Nazi Party within Germany B. The demand for large reparation payments from Germany that weakened political parties supporting democracy in Germany C. US support for military intervention through the League of Nations to preserve the territorial and reparations provisions associated with the Versailles Settlement D. Options \( A \) and \( B \) are both correct E. Options \( \mathrm{A}, \mathrm{B} \), and C are all correct

The Versailles Settlement, signed in 1919, left Germany with a sense of humiliation and resentment. The harsh reparations not only crippled its economy but also fueled extremist parties, like the Nazis, who blamed the government for accepting the treaty's terms. This created fertile ground for Adolf Hitler's rise to power, as he promised to overturn these humiliating conditions and restore Germany's pride. Moreover, the loss of territory and restrictions on the military further undermined the Weimar Republic and pushed many Germans to support radical solutions. Economic instability paired with political discontent led to a situation where many felt the democratic system was ineffective, thereby shifting public support to more authoritarian figures who promised change, ultimately setting the stage for the outbreak of World War II.