"The courtesy which most becomes a victor was denied to Germany for a long time"

This quote by Gustav Stresemann is describing the treatment of Germany after World War I. After the war, Germany was required to sign the Treaty of Versailles, which imposed extreme reparations and limitations on the country. This suggested that Germany was not treated with the respect and courtesy that a victorious nation would usually receive. Stresemann is revealing his frustration with the way Germany was dealt with, as it was rejected the courtesy that would have been expected of a triumphant nation. He is likewise highlighting the unfairness of the circumstance, as Germany had actually been forced to accept the terms of the Treaty of Versailles with no settlement. This quote is a tip of the tight spot Germany dealt with after World War I, and the disrespect and courtesy it got from the triumphant countries.