100 Years Ago Today

[Jimbuna]

7th February 1919

Aftermath of War

Military protest in London (men from Folkestone) re: demobilisation.

The German National Assembly meets in Weimar, Germany as the first legislature to be elected by universal suffrage in the German Republic.


Men of the US First Division, 1st Engineers who entertain troops by performing a musical comedy “Die Wacht Am Rhein” (The Watch on the Rhine) in Wirges, Germany.


Ship Losses:

HMS Erin's Isle (Royal Navy) The minesweeper, a converted paddle steamer, was broken almost in two and sunk by a drifting mine in the Thames Estuary. Twenty-three of her crew were lost and 28 survived.

[Sailor Steve]

Friday, February 7, 1919


PARIS PEACE CONFERENCE
Day 18

1st meeting of the 13th Session of the Supreme War Council

M Pichon's hotel suite, Quai d’Orsay, 15:30

Renewal of the Armistice with Germany. Proposed Military Clauses:

A) M Clemenceau opens the meeting with a statement that the occupation of the enemy’s territory by the forces of the Allied and Associated Powers had been studied by a Committee, with M. Loucheur as Chairman, and by Marshal Foch. Their reports were now ready, and he asks Marshal Foch to make a statement in this regard.

Marshall Foch reads a report of the expected numbers of Allied troops still in the field as of April 5.

France: 2,257,000 men in 46 divisions, each with 4 regiments up to fighting strength, and 6 Cavalry Divisions.

Britain: 900,000 men in 10 divisions, plus 2 cavalry divisions. 552,000 of these will be stationed in France.

United States: Up to 1,400,000 men in 10 divisions in the field and 5 divisions at embarkation points, with a fighting strength of 680,000.

Italy: 1,540,000 men in 31 divisions.

B) M Loucheur gives a summary of his Committee's report on the state of Germany's war-making capabilities. This includes a list of all war machines of all categories - Land, Sea and Air - along with recommendations for methods of insuring that Germany is rendered incapable of further manufacture of war materiel. M Loucheur adds that he believes the German disarmament can be adequately supervised by a force of 200 officers.

President Wilson notes that the Committee's recommendations include additions to the original Armistice terms. He asks Marshal Foch whether the Germans would be willing to meet these new terms and if not, would it be necessary to undertake extra measures to enforce them. Marshal Foch replies that he does not think the Germans will accept the new terms without pressure. He says that when he meets the Germans he plans to tell them "Meet these terms or the Armistice is broken." He will not negotiate with the Germans. On the second question Foch says it will be necessary to establish control over Germany to enforce the new measures, but he does not know whether that control will be effective or not.

M Clemenceau asks if more effective measures are possible. Marshal Foch says that they might occupy the factories, but he doesn't see that as a practical solution. He doesn't see any real way to enforce the new terms to the Armistice.

M Clemenceau asks if Marshal Foch has anything to add. Marshal Foch says no. It would be impossible to prevent the Germans from doing whatever they wanted at home. They will always be able to manufacture arms.

Mr Lloyd George asks how long it will take Germany to manufacture new arms to replace those surrendered. M Loucheur says it will take two years. Mr Lloyd George observes that since the Allies had limited the amount of raw materials going into Germany it would take longer than two years, and he did not think Germany would be able to manufacture new arms with out the Allied inspectors knowing about it. M Loucheur agrees.

Mr Lloyd George asks whether setting a time for Peace to be enforced would help, and proposes the Treaty go into force in July. Marshal Foch replies that he does not know what peace conditions will be imposed, but at this moment it is still impossible to determine what arms Germany still possesses, let alone what should be surrendered.

President Wilson asks what will happen if Germany refuses to surrender the demanded arms. Marshal Foch says there is only one way - "By War". He says that can be avoided by the Allies taking control of all materiel going into Germany. If they control the food supplies Germany will have no choice but to comply with any Allied demands.

C) President Wilson proposes a Civil Commission to negotiate Disarmament with the Germans. He feels it his duty to oppose additions to the Armistice agreements. The Allies should have known what they were doing when they drew up the original terms, and to add to them now was unsportsmanlike. Occupying the factories would require even more troops, and that still might not be enough. Forced demobilization will cause a major influx of unemployed German workers, with no guarantee that there will be work for them anytime soon.

Mr Lloyd George says he does not think the Allies are bound by honour or obligation to feed Germany, but they are attempting to do so anyway as a means to prevent unrest. He says he recently talked to Field Marshal Haig, in which Haig had pointed out that the current situation might leave Germany with enough men and arms to wait until the Americans and British had gone home and the French were scattered and then field an army of up to four million men to renew hostilities.

President Wilson agrees that this is so, but feels that appointing a Civil Commission might aid in convincing the Germans that working together for peace is the best way. He says that he would like this Commission to be in operation before the date fixed for the renewal of the Armistice. M Clemenceau disagrees. He feels that France could be put in a position of grave danger if absolute firmness in not exercised in these matters. It is only a matter of a few months before Allied forces are greatly reduced in Europe.

D) Mr Lloyd George proposes an initial draft for the creation of a Civilian Commission to negotiate a proper disarmament for Germany. One of the provisions is for Marshal Foch to exercise force if necessary. M Clemenceau objects strongly. He then puts forth his own proposal to have soldiers offer to use force, after which Civilian negotiators will offer terms. President Wilson objects, saying that offering a concession after a threat will only serve to nullify the threat. Mr Lloyd George says that his draft was an attempt to reconcile the positions of M Clemenceau and President Wilson, but in fact his own views were in line with those of M Clemenceau.

E) Mr Lloyd George proposes a second draft, stating that the main objective is to disarm the Germans. He proposes that a Civilian Commission be attached to Marshal Foch's staff, and that negotiations be carried out by that group with the military in the background. M Clemenceau again objects, saying that this proposal discusses the reward first, whereas he feels the demand should be made first. President Wilson says he feels the Loucheur Report to be a panic program. He agrees the big guns should be surrendered, but feels that occupation of the factories will require troops to be sent in just when they are trying to send those troops home. Baron Sonnino says he believes the number of demands could be greatly reduced and still have the same effect.

F) Mr Lloyd George now proposes a Committee To Decide on Equipment To Be Surrendered by Germany. If the demands are reduced as suggested by Baron Sonnino, and a small number of factories are monitored, the desired result can be obtained. This is agreed to.

[Jimbuna]

8th February 1919

Aftermath of War

More fighting in Berlin.

Lieutenant General Sir H. F. M. Wilson, commander of the Allied occupation of the Bosporus and Gallipoli, greets French General Franchet d'Esperey at Constantinople.


Bulgarian prisoners of war unload Red Cross supplies headed to Serbia at Salonika, Greece. A Senegalese soldier stands guard.


Born this day, DESMOND DOSS was a US Army corporal who served as a combat medic and became the only conscientious objector to receive the Medal of Honor for his actions during the WWII. His life has been the subject of books, a documentary, and the 2016 film “Hacksaw Ridge.”


French pilot Lucien Bossoutrot completed the first commercial flight between London and Paris, flying a Farman F.60 Goliath carrying 12 passengers from Toussus-le-Noble, France, to RAF Kenley, England.

Ship Losses:

Satsei Maru No.1 (Japan) The cargo ship was wrecked on Daisee Island, Korea with the loss of all hands.
SM U-16 (Imperial German Navy) The Type U 16 submarine foundered in the North Sea (58°59′N 8°29′E).

[Sailor Steve]

Saturday, February 8, 1919


PARIS PEACE CONFERENCE
Day 19

2nd meeting of the 13th Session of the Supreme War Council

M Pichon's hotel suite, Quai d’Orsay, 15:00


M. Clemenceau opens the meeting with two subjects for quick discussion:

1. The German National Assembly at Weimar has requested an increase in Postal and Telegraph facilities. Marshal Foch has drafted a tentative reply saying that as a state of War still officially exists the Allies cannot allow the Germans free and unrestricted access to correspondence.

President Wilson says that he does not wish to grant the Germans any freedom it is not safe to give them, but it is desirable that Germany have some form of authority with which the Allies can deal. It is not good that currently telegrams are taking up to seven days to be delivered, and letters up to three weeks. Mr Balfour says that Marshal Foch's answer is probably the right one. M Clemenceau says the alleged delays are probably exaggerated. It is decided to ask Marshal Foch to expedite delivery of letters and telegrams as much as possible.

2. M Clemenceau reads the correspondence between Marshal Foch and Herr Erzberger on the subject of Repatriation of German Prisoners Of War. President Wilson asks whether Marshal Foch is in favor of repatriation of German prisoners. Marshal Foch replies that it is his impression that the German demand only covers certain categories, such as the wounded, unfit, and fathers of large families. He states that he is in favor of immediate repatriation of prisoners in those categories. M Clemenceau says he is under the impression that Herr Erzberger's request included all prisoners, and asks whether Marshal Foch supports all of the German demand, or only part of it. Marshal Foch replies that in his own letter he only specified certain categories, and that it would be up to the Allies to determine which categories would take preference. M Clemenceau says it will be impossible for the Allied Governments to give an answer without first consulting the appropriate ministers for each category. He suggests that Marshal Foch send a message to Herr Erzberger that the Governments will give him an answer as soon as possible.

Baron Sonnino suggests that the Powers might immediately give up the prisoners who have no value - the sick, the old, and the civilians. Marshal Foch replies that all he has done is to deliver a request. At this point Marshal Foch and General Weygand withdraw from the chamber.

Mr Balfour says he agrees that the Authorities should be fully consulted before giving up any prisoners. It is decided that no reply should be given to Herr Erzberger until a full consultation with the British and French Ministers governing Prisoners of War has been made.

3. André Tardieu, M Clemenceau's assistant and leader of the Council on Franco-American War Co-Operation, reads the report written by the Committee on the Reduction of German Armaments. The Committee does not wish to specify the number of Divisions the Germans will be allowed to keep, as they feel this to be the province of the Peace Council.
Article 1) The Germans should be required to furnish a list of all machine guns, field guns, heavy guns, aeroplane motors and seaplanes needed to supply the Divisions the Council decides the Germans may keep.
Article 2) All surplus will be yielded to the Allies.
Article 3) Since the numbering of all this equipment might take a long time, a specified quantity of all classes will be handed over immediately.

President Wilson says that Article 3 is the only one which lays out a determinate proposal. Article 2 is indeterminate, and allows the Germans themselves to calculate the numbers needed for the Divisions they will be allowed to maintain. Mr Wilson believes the Powers need to make a very specific plan to show the Germans exactly what is planned.

Lord Milner says that while he does not disagree with the President, he believes Mr Wilson's proposal to be outside the scope of the Committee's reference. The Committee was appointed to simplify the demands made on Germany, and he thinks that goal has been accomplished. M Tardieu agrees in thinking the Articles are very specific.

President Wilson quotes a report delivered to the Council yesterday, stating that the Germans have enough arms to equip 30 Divisions. Over and above that they have:
Heavy Guns - 1,500
Field Guns - 6,425
Machine Guns - 41,675

Article 2 of the Committee's report demands the immediate handing over of:
Heavy Guns - 1,000
Field Guns - 4,000
Machine Guns - 20,000

This will leave the Germans an excess of:
Heavy Guns - 500
Field Guns - 2,425
Machine Guns - 21,675

over and above what is required for them to outfit the divisions the Allies are permitting them to keep. This will leave them enough armaments to equip 60 divisions rather than 30.

M. Loucheur points out that these numbers only include what is currently held by the German army. Counting the munitions currently being completed in the factories will double that number. President Wilson says that this quadruples the amount demanded at the Armistice, only three months previous. This leaves the Allies appearing to the World to be mean and petty, and incredibly ignorant of what they are doing. He himself feels the Germans should be allowed to keep everything they now have, because the Germans are beaten, and they know it. Their spirit is broken, and they will not renew the struggle.

M Loucheur cites the potential production by the Germans of 15 new heavy guns, 50 field guns and 200 heavy machine guns, not counting light machine guns, every day. M Clemenceau says the figures are all hypothetical, then and now. He believes the Committee's report is reasonable and secures the safety of the Allies. Lord Milner says that previously they have changed the demanded numbers constantly, and that this report finalizes those numbers. After this the numbers cannot be changed. President Wilson says that definite numbers should be obtained before changing the demands made of the Germans. M Clemenceau says that the refusal of the Germans to cease hostilities with the Poles makes a good pretext for the demands, and President Wilson agrees.

M Clemenceau asks President Wilson to draft a new document combining his own views and the suggestions made concerning Poland. The President agrees.

4. Admiral Wemyss, current British First Sea Lord, states that the Naval questions are easier than the Military ones. The Admirals know exactly what the conditions are, exactly what they want, and what they can get. This must, however, be done quickly, as the German officers were exercising more control every day over the ships and men still under their command. This can be controlled by simply telling the Germans that the lists of ships to be handed over is not provisional, but final. The other Admirals present give their support to Admiral Wemyss.

5. President Wilson reads the draft of a recommendation for the creation of a Supreme Council on Economics.

The Meeting is adjourned until Monday.

[Jimbuna]

9th February 1919

Russian Bolshevik prisoners captured in the Allied Intervention in Siberia.


American soldiers returning from France march in a victory parade in Philadelphia.

[Sailor Steve]

Sunday, February 9, 1919

The Peace Conference has the day off.

[Jimbuna]

10th February 1919

Aftermath of War

More fighting in Archangel region. White forces commanded by General Wrangel capture the Terek capital, Vladikavkaz.

British troops occupying Cologne, Germany enjoy playing ice hockey.


Residents of Mendig, Germany harvesting ice to be stored for summer use.


American soldiers being presented with Medal of Honors at Chaumont. One of them is Private Thomas C. Neibaur, the first Mormon to receive the decoration.


Ship Losses:

SM UC-91 (Imperial German Navy) The Type UC III submarine foundered in the North Sea (54°15′N 3°56′E) with the loss of seventeen of her crew.

[Sailor Steve]

Monday, February 10, 1919


PARIS PEACE CONFERENCE
Day 20

3rd meeting of the 13th Session of the Supreme War Council

M Pichon's hotel suite, Quai d’Orsay, 15:00


1. M Clemenceau calls upon M. Klotz to explain the conclusions reached by the Inter-Allied Commission on the subject of the Renewal of Financial Clauses to be added to the Armistice when next renewed. M Klotz says that since the last renewal of the Armistice the Germans have sought to elude the financial clauses of the Armistice, or have executed them with the greatest ill-will:

(A) They have only handed over an insignificant quantity of bonds and securities stolen by them and deposited in Germany in the Kriegs Kassen and public banks.

(B) They have prevented the operation of the financial control over their foreign securities and only nominated the Commissioners, who were to be put into touch with the Allies, a few days ago.

(C) They have refused, contrary to their undertaking made in the same protocol, to examine, together with the Allies, measures tending to the restitution of property sequestered by them to the detriment of Allied subjects.

(D) The attitude adopted by them in the Financial Commission at Spa, and the tone in which their notes to the Allies were framed, were deliberately aggressive and should not be tolerated.

Taking these facts into consideration, the Inter-Allied Financial Commission has proposed that the following clauses should be added to the Armistice when next renewed:

(1) The German Government will, for the restitution of the property taken from the nationals of the Allied nations, follow, in all its conditions, the provisions which have been made by a common agreement by the Allied Delegations at the Financial Sub-Committee of the Spa Armistice Commission, and which will be notified by the Commander-in-Chief.

(2) This will also apply to the carrying-out of the obligations referred to in paragraph 3 of the Treves financial clauses of December 13th, 1918.

President Wilson asked that the terms of the financial clauses referred to might be read. M Klotz reads paragraphs III and IV of the Financial Clauses of the Agreement for the prolongation of the Armistice, dated Treves, December 13th, 1918, as follows:

“III. The German Government binds itself to pay at maturity and in conformity with current legislation to the natives of Alsace-Lorraine (Alsaciens-Lorrains) all debts or bills of exchange which have fallen due or which may fall due during the armistice and connected with German public funds, such as Treasury Bonds, bills of exchange, money or other orders, transfers, acceptances, etc., the corresponding transactions not being limited to those enumerated in the above recital.

The German Government binds itself not to place any special obstacle in the way of free disposal and enjoyment by Alsace-Lorrainers of all property, securities, shares and monies belonging to them and situate or being in Germany.

IV. The German Government binds itself to consider, in agreement with the Allied Governments, the steps to be taken for the speedy restitution of property sequestrated to the prejudice of nationals of the Allied countries”.

President Wilson says that an Inter-Allied Economic Commission had been formed to report on Economic and Financial matters, and that this question should be referred to that Commission. M Klotz says that a unanimous decision has already been reached by international financial experts meeting at Spa, and that he does not think any purpose will be served by referring the matter to a similar body. Mr Wilson responds that, though a decision has been reached, no means has yet been produced for enforcing the decision. That is the purpose of the new Commission.

Mr Balfour says that he has no objection to the matter being referred to a new Commission, but he suggests that the manner of the enforcement also be handled by the new Commission. He has just this day received a report from the Naval Armistice Commission in London saying the Germans had yet to begin the surrender of submarines and merchant shipping as promised. There are also no signs that they plan to surrender the merchant shipping at all. He says that some means needs to be provided to enforce this.

President Wilson agrees, but says that as far as he is aware the Naval experts have no adequate plan for enforcing the surrender of listed ships. He feels that because of this the experts should be consulted in each individual case. Mr Balfour agrees, but says that according to Admiral Hope the Navy has no means to enforce this, and that the Army should be asked to help. President Wilson is of the opinion that the use of force in this case will mean the end of the Armistice and resumption of the War. Mr Balfour says he meant the use of threats, and not actual force. President Wilson asks Admiral Hope what sort of military action might be necessary and practicable. Admiral Hope replies that no such Naval solutions exist. Any such means must be supplied by the Army.

President Wilson asks Admiral Hope what might happen if the Germans refuse to surrender the submarines under construction. Hope replies that it would require the occupation of several major dockyards and port cities, and that it was not possible.

M Clemenceau points out that they are now discussing two questions - the Economic and the Naval. He suggests the Economic question be resolved first, and that M Klotz should address the statement by Mr Wilson regarding differences between the American and French experts. M Klotz says there had been some disagreement regarding Clause 1 of the Armistice, but that on Clauses 3 and 4 they were in complete harmony. Clause 1 should be referred to the Inter-Allied Commission on Economics, but Clauses 3 and 4 should be adopted immediately. President Wilson says that the Peace Council is not competent to decide this question, and that the whole should be referred to the Commission on Economics.

Mr Balfour comments that these two questions - Economic and Naval - could not be more different, it was likely that their resolution would have to be by the same means. He does not think it the place of an Economics Commission to make decisions regarding enforcement of the Armistice, and it would best be handled by the Military. President Wilson points out the necessity for the Germans to have a means of purchasing from other countries, and so there is an Economic means by which to exert pressure on the Germans. Mr Balfour agrees with Mr Wilson's point, and accepts that the Economics Commission might well be the best body to make these decisions.

M Clemenceau accepts this proposal, but points out that whatever steps are taken must be taken immediately. The Germans' replies to Allied demands have become insolent. They have flatly refused to stop attacks in Poland. He feels the Weimar Government has chosen the worst possible President. He agrees that Economic action is the best means, but that action should take place now, as the Armistice expires on the 17th of this month. Marshal Foch points out that the new Armistice will have to be signed on the 16th, therefore negotiations must begin on the 14th and end on the 15th. M Clemenceau agrees, and says that each Nation should appoint one expert, either Economic or Naval, to report on the 12th the best means for applying pressure on the Germans to comply with the clauses of the Armistice.

President Wilson says that he is ready to stand by any choice taken, but that they must be aware of the gravity of the situation. If the Armistice is not renewed then the War must be. He points out that if they have not reached a decision on enforcement of the Armistice then they should renew the Armistice on the original terms for a short period, say two weeks.

M Clemenceau asks Marshal Foch for his opinions on this proposal. Marshal Foch replies that the situation is indeed grave, for if the Armistice is not renewed then they will again be at war. He agrees with the idea of a short renewal on the original terms being better than having to renew the fighting. President Wilson suggests that along with a short-term renewal it might be best if the Germans are fully informed that the reason for this is simply because the Allies are still deciding what measures to take for enforcement. He feels this might make the Germans sit back and think about the course they are currently taking.

Mr Balfour says he thinks the President's warning might make a big impression on the Germans. He thinks an Economic blockade of Germany might actually have a bigger impact than a renewal of hostilities. M Pichon is of an opposite mind. He thinks the Germans will believe the Allies are hesitant to give orders, and a short-term renewal might actually make things worse. President Wilson says that M Pichon's objection is just, and that they still have not found a real solution to the problem.

M Clemenceau suggests the issue be tabled until Wednesday the 12th. By that time they should have received the report of the Commission on Poland. President Wilson agrees, provided the matter be referred to a Committee of Economic and Naval experts and that they give their thoughts on that day. M Clemenceau asks that the experts be given instructions to have a report ready on Wednesday. The Commanders of the Allied Armies will be invited to attend that meeting. Mr Balfour says that the Allied Commanders should not serve as advisors to the Committee, but should only act as experts to give their opinions when asked.

Mr Clemenceau asks for a five-minute recess while the Council members assign their recommendations to the new Committee.

When the Council resumes, the members give their nominations.

America: Mr Norman Davis and General Bliss.

British Empire: Lord Robert Cecil and General Thwaites.

France: M Clementel and General Degoutte.

Italy: Signor Crespi and General Cavellero.

It is decided that these delegates will hold their first meeting at 1800 hours this evening at 4 bis Boulevard des Invalides.


2. M Clemenceau suggests that since discussion of the Armistice has been postponed, questions concerning the addition of clauses relating to Poland should likewise be tabled. This is agreed to.


3. Mr Balfour opens a discussion on The Arrest of Enemy Persons Guilty of Breaches of the Laws of War. He feels that it should be put into the new Armistice that, while no names would be given in that document, any persons asked for later would be given over for trial. Mr Lansing says that, though he agrees in principle, he does not consider this a proper question to be put into the Armistice. Further, knowing that a trial was to take place, the Germans, knowing exactly who the people in question were, would do everything in their power to conceal said persons. President Wilson agrees with this, and the consideration is tabled for later discussion.


4. M Clemenceau says that it has been decided that all discussions of a blockade on raw materials entering Germany would henceforth be referred to the Council on Economics. M Klotz agrees, but wishes to bring to light a recently-discovered document which revealed a German plan to destroy all French industries in occupied areas. This pamphlet was printed during the Verdun campaign of 1916 and referred to German actions if they had to withdraw from that region. President Wilson askes what object M Klotz has in bringing this up. M Klotz replies that it clearly shows that the Germans intended a premeditated destruction of French industries by German Authorities. President Wilson says he understands how this might affect their frame of mind, but asks what effect it will have on their plans. M Klotz says that the first duty of the Technical Committee is to see to the restoration of destroyed industries in occupied France.


5. M Clemenceau addresses the report submitted by the Military Representatives at Versailles regarding Territories in the former Turkish Empire and the Trans-Caucasus region. Lord Milner gives his opinion that this is better suited for the Peace Conference than the War Council. It is decided to postpone this question until the next day.


Subjects for the next meeting:
1. Belgian Territorial Claims.
2. Occupation of territories in the Turkish Empire and Trans-Caucasia.

[Jimbuna]

11th February 1919

Aftermath of War

Friedrich Ebert is elected the first President of Germany by the National Assembly, becoming the first democratically elected leader in the country.


A damaged British plane next to a German Gotha bomber at an airfield in Cologne, Germany, currently under British occupation.


A workshop testing dazzle painting on model ships which were used to help camouflage ships during the war.


The General Strike in Seattle involving more than 65,000 workers comes to an end due to public pressure and increased police presence. Policemen with a mounted machine gun in Seattle.

[Sailor Steve]

Tuesday, February 11, 1919

PARIS PEACE CONFERENCE
Day 21

M Pichon's hotel suite, Quai d’Orsay, 15:00


M Clemenceau opens the meeting by asking M Hymans to make his statement of Belgian territorial claims.

1. M Hymans said that the general statement of the Belgian peace problem might be summarized in one comprehensive demand: the revision of the Treaty of 19th April 1839.

2. M Hymans gives a historical overview of the events leading to the War, ending with the statement that the War has ruined Belgium's economy.

3. M Hymans says that Belgium is asking Britain and France to help Belgium attain complete Sovereignty, and to become a strong and prosperous nation again.

4. Belgium is asking for control of the Scheldt River, as this is the vital artery of Belgium, connecting Antwerp with the sea, and the lack of access to the river has caused Belgium great suffering in both War and Peace.

5. Belgium is asking for control of the Canal linking Ghent to the Scheldt.

6. President Wilson brings up the question of how Belgium can negotiate with Holland, since that was the only other Nation who held any claim to the river in question. Holland had remained neutral during the war and had on representatives at the Peace Conference. M Hymans replies that Belgium wishes to remain on good terms with Holland, and to that end the Dutch be asked to send a Representative to the Peace Conference to negotiate a revision to the Treaty of 1839, which assigned the current borders.

President Wilson asks how M Hymans thinks Holland can be brought to a discussion of this proposal. M Hymans says he believes the Conference should provide the solution to that question. Mr Balfour says the real difficulty is that a neutral country is to be asked to modify a treaty and to surrender territory without any offer of compensation. M Hymans says that he would at a later stage make a suggestion on the subject of compensation but would like first to speak on the subject of Limburg as this matter was closely connected with the question of the Scheldt.

7. The treaty of 1839 had taken a part of the Limburg Territory from Belgium, which had deprived Belgium of the waterways in the region between the Meuse and Rhine rivers. The Dutch enclave at Maestricht is only five miles across, but a craft navigating the canal through that enclave must pass customs four separate times.

8. M Hymans now returns to the subject of a method of negotiation with Holland. The Dutch had remained neutral during the War, but it was Belgium's sacrifice that allowed them to do so. Holland had profited greatly selling supplies to the Germans, and thus took part in the war while remaining officially neutral. M Hymans says that Holland's neutrality should not be used to avoid negotiations with Belgium. He feels the Conference can use these facts for leverage to bring the Dutch to the table.

9. M Hymans returns to the question of Compensation for any lands claimed by Belgium. While Belgium has nothing to offer in the way of finances, it might be possible for Belgium to support a claim by Holland for the Prussian Guelderland region, which has close ties to Holland and whose population speaks mostly Dutch. Belgium would also support a Dutch claim to Eastern Friesland and Bentheim, possession of which would give Holland a strong buffer zone against possible future attacks by Germany. M Hymans says this proposal seems to him to offer military and economic advantages not only for Holland but for the Allies in general.

10. M Hymans requests the Conference look into a possible Belgian claim for Luxembourg, as that country's government is not recognized by the Allies. He says that there are three options:

1) Maintenance of the current Government. This is impossible because the Grand Duchess is not recognized.

2) Union with France. This is unlikely because France has made no claims against Luxembourg.

3) Union with Belgium. This is the only viable option.

11. Belgium makes a claim for the Walloons Cantons, especially Malmedy and Moresnet.

12. M Hymans says that if discussion arise later on the Rhine question, he reserves the right to restate Belgium's claim to that district.

M Hymans concludes by saying he hopes he has stated his country's claims clearly and reminding the Conference how much Belgium suffered under the German invasion. He hopes it is understood that Belgium is still suffering greatly, and these territorial claims are an attempt to alleviate that suffering and not in any way based on thoughts of conquest or imperialism.

The meeting is then adjourned.

[Jimbuna]

12th February 1919


Aftermath of War

Renewal of Armistice conditions settled by Allies.

Allied Mission arrives at Warsaw.

Ukrainians defeat Bolsheviks near Kiev.

U.S.A. passes three years' Naval Programme.

African American soldier of the 369th Infantry Regiment (Harlem Hellfighters) shows off a captured portrait of Kaiser Wilhelm II framed by bullets that he carried around for luck.

[Sailor Steve]

Wednesday, February 12, 1919

PARIS PEACE CONFERENCE
Day 22

M Pichon's hotel suite, Quai d’Orsay, 11:00

1. M Clemenceau opens the meeting, then asks for the report of the Committee which had assembled at Marshal Foch’s Headquarters in accordance with the decision of the Supreme War Council, dated 10th February, 1919. General Weygand reads the conclusions of the Committee. M Clemenceau asks whether it is advisable to discuss the report immediately. President Wilson says the sooner the better. It is agreed to make the report the main topic of discussion.

Signor Orlando points out the clause which reads "The members of the Committee are of the opinion that naval and military terms of peace should be drawn up immediately by a Commission appointed for the purpose, and shall be imposed on the enemy," and says it seems that "naval and military terms of peace" are not the same are the same as the conditions in the report itself.

2. Mr Balfour agrees that the terms are two different questions: a) How to guarantee German cooperation with the execution of unfulfilled promises, and b) What should the Allied policy be regarding the renewal of the Armistice? Should it be renewed constantly with new sets of terms and conditions, or should the final terms be drawn up now and imposed upon the Germans?

M Clemenceau feels the final terms must not be discussed at this time, as the Council is not yet ready. On the other hand the terms already agreed to by the Germans must be enforced immediately. Marshal Foch points out that the Armistice expires at 0500 on the 17th, therefore the renewal must be signed on the 16th and he will have to leave Paris by the 15th at the latest. M Clemenceau says that more than two days will be required to decide the final naval and military clauses to be included in the Peace Treaty. Consequently, the consideration of that question would have to be postponed, but the conditions for a renewal of the armistice must at once be decided.

Mr Balfour says that it would be a bad idea to renew the Armistice every month with new and changing terms. There must be a finalized set of conditions, with only small changes allowed after that. President Wilson says that he is happy to hear that, since he has pointed out several times that they are constantly adding new secondary demands while at the same time fretting over the Germans not fulfilling the main plans already agreed to. They have discussed the possibility of renewing the War if major demands were not met, but kept adding new conditions which they knew they were not willing to go back to War over. Rather than debate the Germans endlessly over minor infractions, he wanted to present them a single demand along the lines of "The present situation is altogether unsatisfactory. You have failed to keep your promises. You have failed to carry out the terms of the Armistice. The Armistice will be renewed, on the present terms, for a period which will be terminated on a few days’ notice. Meanwhile the final Military and Naval terms of peace will be drawn up and presented to you for acceptance on the understanding that non-acceptance of the whole of the terms would mean an immediate resumption of hostilities."

M Clemenceau objects, saying that the future minor demands and the current major ones are ultimately tied together, and the exact nature of the Naval and Military terms for Peace hinged on what the future demands might entail. There are more than thirty nations represented at the Conference, and most if not all of them will be a part of the League of Nations. Their Political and Economic desires and needs cannot be separated from the Military conditions.

M Clemenceau then quotes President Wilson, who had previously said "I am ready to employ the whole strength of the American Army to obtain acceptance of the final conditions of peace. As to secondary questions—well, let them go. For vital questions, I am ready to renew the war, if necessary." He feels that the President's quote in the end is purely academic. The majority of the Peace will be accomplished after the American, British and Italian troops have all gone home. To enforce the President's proposal would require keeping 51 French, 10 British and 10 American divisions in the field indefinitely, along with all the means to supply them.

“The Supreme War Council agree that:

1) The armistice with Germany shall be renewed on the present terms for an undefined period terminable by the Allied and Associated Powers at . . . . . days’ notice.

2) Detailed and final naval, military, and air conditions shall be drawn up at once by a Committee to be presided over by Marshal Foch and submitted for the approval of the Supreme War Council: These, when approved, will be presented for signature to the Germans.

3) After the signature of these preliminaries of peace Germany will be permitted to receive such controlled quantities of food, and raw materials for the rehabilitation of her industry, as shall be deemed just, having regard to the prior claims of Allied countries, especially those on whose industries Germany has deliberately inflicted damage.

4) The question of the quantities of food and raw material to be allowed to Germany after the signature of the preliminaries of peace shall be referred to the Economic Council for examination and report.”

The meeting is adjourned until 1530, with Technical, Military and Naval advisors to be in attendance at 1700.


M Pichon's hotel suite, Quai d’Orsay, 15"30

1. M Clemenceau opens the afternoon meeting with the suggestion that the discussion should begin where it left off that morning.

President Wilson says that upon reflection he has concluded that the differences of opinion can be reduced to one important point: The terms of the Peace should be finalized before the troops started demobilizing. M Clemenceau says that this was his plan all along, and his main objection. Mr Balfour says he is also in agreement.

President Wilson says one problem is that Germany cannot be disarmed until it is decided what arms they need to retain to fight off a possible Bolshevist attack and to maintain an internal police force. He feels the World has a moral right to disarm Germany, and believes the Military Advisors can come up with a plan for this within 48 hours. He's not sure, however, that the Governments can approve the plan in 48 hours. He does not wish the Armistice to go on for much longer, but it cannot be done away with until the governments all agree on Disarmament. The Peace terms must be served while the Allied armies are still in full force, or the Germans might decide they can win a renewed war.

M Clemenceau agrees that the experts must decide on terms of Disarmament as soon as possible. President Wilson says the American experts are ready now. M Clemenceau and Mr Balfour state that the French and British experts are also ready.

M Clemenceau now expresses concern that President Wilson has to leave the conference for a time, and might be gone as long as a month. M Clemenceau says he will not discuss the matter while the President is away, so it must be postponed until he has returned. Mr Wilson says this is an undeserved compliment. The brains he uses are not his own. If his military advisors say one thing he will follow that course anyway, so it doesn't really matter if he is there or not. He does not wish for any important business to he held up while he is gone, so he as appointed Colonel House to act for him while he's gone.

M Clemenceau says he is completely satisfied. M Pichon asks whether it might be possible for the experts to come up with the plan before the President leaves. Lord Milner says they have studied the matter in detail and the largest army Germany can sustain at present is 25 divisions.

Signor Orlando points out that they have still not decided whether the Armistice should be renewed monthly or finalized. President Wilson says he does not think that decision can be made in 48 hours. he feels, therefore, the Armistice should be renewed monthly but that a strong demand be delivered to the Germans that unless the comply with the terms laid down at the start reprisals will be harsh.

Mr Balfour presents a new draft for the Peace terms:
1) As a condition of the renewal of the armistice Marshal Foch shall stipulate that the Germans shall desist from all offensive operations against the Poles, whether in Posen or elsewhere.

2) The Armistice with Germany shall be renewed for a short period terminable by the Allied and Associated Powers at three days’ notice.

3) Detailed and final naval, military, and air conditions of the preliminaries of peace shall be drawn up at once by a Committee to be presided over by Marshal Foch and submitted for the approval of the Supreme War Council; these, when approved, will be presented for signature to the Germans, and the Germans shall be at once informed that this is the policy of the Associated Governments.

4) After the signature of these preliminaries of peace, Germany will be permitted to receive such controlled quantities of food, and raw materials for the rehabilitation of her industry, as shall be deemed just, having regard to the prior claims of Allied countries, especially those on whose industries Germany had deliberately inflicted damage.

5) The question of the quantities of food and raw material to be allowed to Germany after the signature of the preliminaries of peace shall be referred to the Economic Council for examination and report.

At President Wilson's suggestion clauses 4 and 5 are dropped from the list temporarily. This is agreed to.

2. M Clemenceau says that before adjourning he would like to two subjects:

A) That a Commission be appointed to look into the transfer of Malmedy and Moresnet to Belgium.

B) That the question of Belgian right-of-way on all waterways be assigned to the Commission on the International Control of Ports, Waterways and Railways.

This is approved without discussion.

3. Mr Balfour proposes a Committee To Deal With Reports From Polish Commission, which will refer big questions to the Council and deal with the smaller questions itself.

4. Nominations to the various committees should be certified to the Secretary-General as soon as possible.

5. M Clemenceau says he has received a demand from the Poles that the next Armistice Renewal contain a requirement that the Germans return agricultural implements stolen from the Poles. He feels that this is justified, since the same has already been done for the French and the Belgians. President Wilson thinks this is a bad idea since The Poles are technically on German territory. The Allies might have moral right on their side but the Germans would have the law on theirs. Mr Balfour asks whether it would be possible to put pressure on the Germans outside the Armistice and say "You cannot expect us to assist you as long as you keep goods stolen from our friends." President Wilson suggests this be referred to the Economic Council.

6. M Clemenceau agrees to the above proposal provided the return of French cattle also be referred to that Council.

7. M Clemenceau wants it stipulated that the Civil Commissioners attached to Marshal Foch do not contact the Germans independently. President Wilson agrees provided it is made clear that Marshal Foch should consult those Commissioners whenever an Economic question is being discussed.

8. M Clemenceau proposes and the Council agrees that commercial relations should be resumed with Turkey and Bulgaria.

At this point the meeting is adjourned and the Military Advisors invited into the room.


Meeting of the Supreme War Council
M Pichon's hotel suite, Quai d’Orsay, 17"00

9. M Clemenceau reads the first three clauses of the Resolution on the Renewal of the Armistice. Marshal Foch asks whether the First Clause could be made more clear. Using a map he shows how the Germans could, while not directly attacking Poland, move against other territories in a manner that could make the situation untenable for the Poles. It is decided that Marshal Foch will be empowered to create a line of demarcation between Poland and Germany.

President Wilson points out that the Poles have complained about attacks on the civil population as well as the military. M Clemenceau says that question cannot be settled by Marshal Foch, and that further such complaints should be directed back to the Council. This is agreed to.

10. M Clemenceau explains the intentions of the governments in Clause 2 concerning the length of the Renewal of the Armistice, and asks the Military and Naval experts to start on this immediately, and to remain in close contact with himself.

11. President Wilson proposes that the nominees for the Committee to Advise on Disarmament should be named at once. It is also decided that the Committee members will sit together at their own table during meetings.

The Members appointed are:

United States of America
General Bliss.
Admiral Benson.
General Mason N. Patrick.

British Empire
General Sir H. H. Wilson.
Admiral Wemyss.
General Sykes.
(Or their representatives)

France
General Degoutte.
Admiral de Bon.
General Duval.

Italy
General Cavallero.
Admiral Grassi.
(plus a third to be nominated later)

Japan
(The Japanese delegates remain to be chosen.)

12. It is agreed that M Clemenceau will give Marshal Foch the text for the Renewal of the Armistice, which he will present to the Germans.

The meeting is then adjourned.

[Jimbuna]

13th February 1919

The cabinet of the German Republic meets for the first time in Weimar.

[Sailor Steve]

Thursday, February 13, 1919

PARIS PEACE CONFERENCE
Day 23

M Pichon's hotel suite, Quai d’Orsay, 11:00

1. M. Clemenceau opens the meeting asking whether the representatives of the Great Powers to form part of the Poland and Belgium Committees, respectively, had been appointed.

The following names are given:

i) Committee on Poland.

Great Britain:
Sir W. Tyrrell.

France:
M. Jules Cambon.

Italy:
Count Vannutelli-Rey.

Japan:
M. Otchiai.

ii) Committee on Belgium.

Great Britain:
Sir Eyre Crowe.
Mr. J. W. Headlam-Morle.

France
M. Tardieu.
M. Laroche.

Italy:
M. Ricci-Busatti.

President Wilson says he regrets that through an omission the American representatives to sit on these two Committees had not yet been chosen. He would submit the names to the Secretariat-General during the course of the afternoon.

Signor Orlando says that the name of the second representative to sit on the Belgian Committee would shortly be submitted.

2. Signor Orlando raises a question related to the decision made yesterday on the disarmament of Germany. While the Western Front Armistice is being renewed, a state of war technically still exists between Italy and the Austro-Hungarian Empire, despite the fact that said Empire has ceased to exist. There are new States left over from the Empire that are friendly to Italy, but there are also those which are still Hostile. S Orlando requests that the Inter-Allied Military Commission, created to deal with the German Armistice, be authorized to also address the situation between Italy and Austria-Hungary. President Wilson wholeheartedly agrees.

It is decided that the Inter-Allied Military Commission's powers will be expanded to include the handling of the Southern Front Armistice as well.

3. Dr Bliss is invited into the chamber to make a statement regarding Syria. After careful examination he has decided that the Syrian People are ready to govern themselves. He therefore recommends that a Commission be sent to Syria to enquire as to their own feelings on the subject, whether they feel ready to rule themselves or would rather be governed by a Mandate until they are ready to take that step. Either way the country would be guarded and helped by the League of Nations. Dr Bliss now gives a lengthy speech listing the details of Syria's current state of affairs.

M Pichon asks Dr Bliss whether his proposal applies to all former Ottoman territories or to Syria alone. Dr Bliss replies that he had been born in Syria and is now living there. While he feels his remarks should apply to other Religions and other Populations, he can only speak personally for Syria herself.

There follows a very long series of questions from Mr Balfour with answers from Dr Bliss, after which the members of the Syrian Commission are introduced:

Chekri Gamen - Chief Representative of the Central Syrian Committee.
Mardan Bey - Muslim Representative.
Mr Chedade - Orthodox Representative
There is also an Israelite Representative who is unnamed in the Official Documents.

4. Chekri Gamen reads an opening statement concerning the Syrian question, and it is agreed to put aside further discussion on Syria until a later date.

5. President Wilson makes a statement concerning legislation and conditions of Women and Children worldwide. He asks whether a Commission should be appointed to examine this situation. M Clemenceau asks whether this could be handled by the already-existing Inter-Allied Commission on International Labour Legislation. Mr Wilson replies that this would not satisfy the Suffrage Associations, which had asked for Official recognition. He feels this recognition should be given. Maharaja Bikaner says that such recognition would create considerable difficulty in Oriental countries. Mr Wilson says the inquiry would be restricted to European countries and to America.

M Clemenceau says he would not object to an inquiry into labor conditions for women and children, but he would object to an inquiry into the political status of women. President Wilson replies that this is the question Women are chiefly interested in. Mr Balfour says he is a longtime supporter of Women's Suffrage, but he feels that this is not a subject for the Peace Conference. Baron Makino says there is a Suffrage Movement in Japan, but at this time it is insignificant. Baron Sonnino says that he too supports Suffrage but like Mr Balfour he does not feel this is the proper time or place for such discussions. President Wilson says that with most of the Members opposed, he is withdrawing his proposal.

6. President Wilson suggests that the Plenary Conference on the League of Nations be called tomorrow to discuss submissions for plans to be submitted by Council Members. M Clemenceau asks whether reports should be first submitted to the Council. Mr Wilson replies that the League Commission is not of the Council of Great Powers but was created by the Plenary Conference. Therefore the reports should be submitted directly to the Plenary Conference. Mr Balfour asks that Mr Wilson explain his scheme to the Plenary Conference before departing for the United States. Mr Wilson agrees to this.

At this point the meeting is adjourned.

[Jimbuna]

14th February 1919

Aftermath of War

Bolsheviks invade Estonia.

The first skirmishes of the Polish-Soviet War begin near the village of Bereza Kartuska (today Byaroza, Belarus) as the two sides clash in the power vacuum left by leaving German troops.

League of Nations Covenant approved; published following day.

Gates of the Kremlin in Moscow, showing damages caused by the fighting between the Bolsheviks and anti-Communists.


At the Paris Peace Conference, Japanese Ambassador Makino Nobuaki proposes the racial equality clause that would make “no distinction, either in law or in fact, on account of their race or nationality.”


A U.S. postal worker cancels the stamps of a woman “delivered” by the new U.S. aerial post service in San Diego.