Why did Russia pull out of World War I?
In 1905 there had been an unsuccessful uprising in Russia against the rule of the tsar. Riots broke out again in 1917, when people protested about the lack of food and fuel that were being diverted to the troops.
The Bolsheviks, led by Lenin, eventually took over and the tsar and his family were murdered. The new Communist government began peace negotiations with Germany.
What was the Versailles Treaty?
The Versailles Treaty was drawn up after World War I. It was designed to punish the Germans for their role in the war. Germany was forced to pay the Allies compensation, and to give up part of its territory in Europe. The treaty led to the collapse of the German economy, and set the pattern for later political problems. Other countries suffered as frontiers were redrawn following the end of the old European empires and alliances.
What are the Balkans?
The Balkans are the region in the southeast corner of Europe, bordered by Russia and Turkey. Throughout the 1800s and in the early 20th century, the Balkans rebelled against their former rulers and gradually obtained their freedom.
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