What was the outcome of the Treaty of Versailles?

The Treaty of Versailles officially ended World War I, marking the conclusion of hostilities between Germany and the Allied Powers. Signed on June 28, 1919, the treaty aimed to impose penalties and reparations on Germany while redrawing national boundaries and establishing new nations. This treaty is considered one of the most significant documents of the 20th century as it not only ceased the fighting but also set the stage for numerous political changes in Europe and beyond.

While the treaty facilitated the formation of the League of Nations, which is a notable outcome, the primary and immediate effect was the cessation of military conflict. The League aimed to promote peace and prevent future conflicts but was later unable to effectively address the issues that led to World War II, ultimately being one of the discussions surrounding the treaty’s consequences. The treaty's harsh terms could be interpreted as contributing to the conditions that initiated World War II, but that is a more indirect consequence rather than a direct outcome. Thus, the clarification that the Treaty of Versailles officially ended World War I remains the most accurate and immediate answer.