C. Explain why international relations improved in the period 1924-28 (12) (Edexcel History A)

An answer at an appropriate level, but top band: There were a variety of reasons why relations between nations improved in the period 1924-1928. The League of Nations had been formed during the Versailles Conference (1920). Nations formed a defensive alliance to achieve "collective security", agreeing to work together to protect any member under threat by another county. This mostly took the form of trading embargoes on the aggressive country. The League also encouraged disarmament throughout the period. Although these first two elements were important symbols of improving international relations they were not always implemented. However, there was a substantial increased cooperation between counties economically, in trade and workers' rights regulations which improved international connections and relations. When Germany was allowed to join in 1926, after the Locarno Pact of 1925, there was a real sense of a new, cooperative Europe. A second, but not unrelated factor for improving relations in Europe was American involvement in the economic recovery of Germany was crucial for beginning German reparations as per the Treaty of Versailles. Fulfilling the terms of the treaty was key to avoiding Allied hostility. For example the French invasions of the Ruhr in 1923 was motivated by slow reparation payments. The Dawes plan of 1924 provided large loans (about $200 million) to Germany to help begin rebuilding of Germany and fulfilment of the terms of the Treaty of Versailles, but also reduced the price of the first repayments. A third major factor, and I think is the most significant factor in improving international relations between 1924 and 28 was Stresseman's diplomatic work in building relationships from the German side. He was key in solving (or attempting to solve) Germany's economic problems by bringing in a new currency and making the Dawes plan possible, these stabilised Germany's economy to a point that reparation payments could begin. This also was important for ensuring the Locarno and Kellog Briand Pacts were passed, which promised peaceful solutions to problems (particularly important after the French reoccupation of the Ruhr) and allowed German entry to the League of Nations.A leader with good diplomatic and economic skill was vital to securing German reintegration in Europe and Stresseman was vital to the success of the League of Nations as well as encouraging American investment to rebuild Germany.