The Question of Czechoslovak-German Arbitration Treaty at the Conference in Locarno
The Question of Czechoslovak-German Arbitration Treaty at the Conference in Locarno

Summary/Abstract: Different politician interpreted the treaties in different ways. There were many possibilities how could be the treaties presented to public. Politician tried to persuade public in their counties that everything what could be done for the country was done and in some cases even more. The treaties caused large response all over the world. Divine services which wanted to thank for the treaties took place also in the USA. Observing the preparation and negotiations concerning the arbitration treaties between Germany and its eastern neighbours, it is obvious that the question of German eastern boundaries became one of the most complicated questions on the European diplomatic scene. The circumstances remained hidden from the contemporary public, but the situation in central-eastern Europe obviously changed. The main political powers found consensus. It was necessary to connect Germany into economic relations in Europe. The economic integration went hand in hand with political integration. With the return into the political life of Europe, Germany was bolder in expressing their demands. Germany’s efforts were not new. However, with increasing German power, also Great Britain and France were more willing and in several years even forced to listen to German proposals and demands. Germans considered eastern boundaries as secondary. Also the participation of Czechoslovak and Polish Foreign Ministers at the conference in Locarno was considered as secondary. Eastern boundaries of Germany were de facto acknowledged to be a problem in Locarno Conference. This problem was silently avoided during this conference and the solution was recessed without any outlook of the solution. If we want to judge Locarno treaties and their importance for Czechoslovakia, it is necessary to become familiar with the circumstances under which these treaties were signed. That was the goal of this article.

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