World War I: 1914-1918
Hitler's opportunity for redemption came with the onset of the First World War. He volunteered for the German Empire's Bavarian army and served on the Western Front through the war. These wartime experiences helped mature Hitler's views. In 1918, he was wounded in a mustard gas attack, hospitalized for the rest of the war. Later learning of Central defeat, Hitler became determined to lead a powerful Germany:
"When I was confined to bed, the idea came to me that I would liberate Germany, that I would make it great. I knew immediately that would be realized."
The Treaty of Versailles (pictured) made Germany accept blame for the war and forced them to pay near £22 billion in reparations. Furthermore, the treaty demilitarized Germany and stripped it of its colonies. The Weimar Republic was set up in place of the former empire.
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