The treaty that officially ended World War I and imposed reparations on Germany was the Treaty of Versailles, signed on June 28, 1919. The treaty held Germany responsible for the war, imposing significant territorial losses, military restrictions, and reparations that plunged the country into economic hardship. Its harsh terms fostered resentment among Germans, contributing to political instability and the rise of extremist movements. The treaty’s legacy is contentious, as it is often cited as a contributing factor to the onset of World War II, highlighting the challenges of achieving lasting peace after such a devastating conflict.