The Inside Story of the Peace Conference
by Emile Joseph Dillon (1855–1933)
- Free to read
- 11 hours to read
- 17 chapters
- Reading level: 10th to 12th grade
"The Inside Story of the Peace Conference" by Emile Joseph Dillon is a historical account written in the early 20th century, specifically post-World War I, reflecting on the 1919 Paris Peace Conference. The book provides insights into the various delegations, political dynamics, and social atmosphere of Paris during this pivotal time, exploring not just the logistics of the Conference but also the broader societal implications and challenges faced by leaders in their quest for lasting peace. The opening of the book sets the stage for the Peace Conference by elaborating on Paris as a backdrop teeming with political intrigue and heightened tensions. Dillon describes the initial hesitations over choosing Paris, ultimately emphasizing its symbolic significance following the harsh realities of war. He paints a picture of a city filled with diverse representatives from around the globe, each with their own political desires and historical grievances. Through vivid descriptions, Dillon captures the confusion and anticipation present in the chaotic atmosphere, foreshadowing the complex negotiations that would attempt to underpin future international relations while wrestling with the specters of the past.
- Paris Peace Conference (1919-1920)
Read the opening
Chapter I
THE CITY OF THE CONFERENCE
The choice of Paris for the historic Peace Conference was an afterthought. The Anglo-Saxon governments first favored a neutral country as the most appropriate meeting-ground for the world's peace-makers. Holland was mentioned only to be eliminated without discussion, so obvious and decisive were the objections. French Switzerland came next in order, was actually fixed upon, and for a time held the field. Lausanne was the city first suggested and nearly chosen. There was a good deal to be said for it on its own merits, and in its suburb, Ouchy, the treaty had been drawn up which terminated the war between Italy and Turkey. But misgivings were expressed as to its capacity to receive and entertain the formidable peace armies without whose co-operation the machinery for stopping all wars could not well be fabricated. At last Geneva was fixed upon, and so certain were influential delegates of the ratification of their choice by all the Allies, that I felt justified in telegraphing to Geneva to have a house hired for six months in that picturesque city.
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About this edition
This free edition of The Inside Story of the Peace Conference by Emile Joseph Dillon comes from Project Gutenberg eBook #14477, released 2004-12-26. It is in the public domain in the United States, so you can read it here in full at no cost, on any phone, tablet or computer. Genre: History - European, History - Modern (1750+).
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