LON+Success+-+Upper+Silesia

Upper Silesia

There was a industrial region on the border between Germany and Poland, and it was inhabited by both German and Polish people. Both countries wanted to control it mainly because of its rich iron and steel industry. In 1920, a plebiscite was organized so Silesians could vote. The treaty of Versailles had given the people of Upper Silesia the right to vote. French and British troops were sent to keep order at the polling booth. Around 700,000 voted for Germany, and 500,000 for Poland. This close result caused rioting so Germany and Poland asked the League to settle the dispute. Industrial areas mainly voted for Germany, and rural areas mainly voted for Poland. After a six weeks inquiry, the League divided Upper Silesia along these lines, and built in many safeguards to prevent future disputes. The League also safeguarded rail links between both countries, and made arrangements for water and power supplies from one side of the border to the other. Germany, Poland and Upper Silesia accepted this decision.