Introduction by Michael Cox

In 1919 John Maynard Keynes authored a short volume of only 60,000 words which defined the ways later generations viewed the Versailles Peace Treaty. Described by critics as being both inaccurate and unfair, but by supporters as being one of the most compelling pieces of writing of the 20th century, The Economic Consequences of the Peace remains one of the most fought over books of our time. A best seller in the 1920s it remains today a powerful warning to all those who would sacrifice the stability of Europe on the alter of political self-interest and narrow-minded nationalism.