The main purpose of the Treaty of Versailles after World War I was to formally end the war and to impose significant punitive measures on Germany and its allies. Signed in 1919, the treaty aimed to hold Germany responsible for the war, leading to territorial losses, military restrictions, and heavy reparations payments. It also sought to establish the League of Nations to promote lasting peace. However, the harsh terms created resentment in Germany, contributing to economic distress and political instability, which later facilitated the rise of Adolf Hitler and the onset of World War II.