What motivated the French invasion of the Ruhr?

The French invasion of the Ruhr in 1923 was primarily motivated by Germany's difficulty in paying reparations that were required under the Treaty of Versailles after World War I. Following the war, Germany faced severe economic hardships, including hyperinflation, which made it increasingly challenging for the country to meet its reparative obligations to the Allies, particularly the French and the British.

When Germany failed to make its scheduled reparations payments, France, alongside Belgium, took military action to occupy the Ruhr industrial region, which was a vital area for German coal and steel production. This occupation was intended to compel Germany to resume payments by seizing control of its industrial output. The French aimed to use the resources from the Ruhr to offset Germany's debts and ensure they received what they were owed, reflecting a reaction to the economic turmoil and inability of Germany to fulfill its financial commitments.

In summary, the invasion was a direct response to Germany's inability to meet reparation payments rather than stemming from an interest in expanding territory or responding to rapid economic growth in Germany. The suggestion that Germany offered resources to France does not align with the context of the occupation, which was a control mechanism rather than a cooperative agreement.