> That WWI and it's peace settlement were a major contributing factor to WWII seems pretty clearly established as well.
Sure, but WW2 could very well have started in 1931 or 1953 (just random years) instead, for other reasons. For example, the USSR would have been a much more powerful nation in the 40s and 50s if it wasn't decimated by WW2. And with no presence of US forces in Europe, what would have stopped its expansion but war? Add in communist China and you have the makings for an even more deadly war.
Sure, but WW2 could very well have started in 1931 or 1953 (just random years) instead, for other reasons. For example, the USSR would have been a much more powerful nation in the 40s and 50s if it wasn't decimated by WW2. And with no presence of US forces in Europe, what would have stopped its expansion but war? Add in communist China and you have the makings for an even more deadly war.