Which leader was known for wanting to punish Germany severely after World War I?

Clemenceau, the Prime Minister of France during the post-World War I period, was particularly focused on punishing Germany for its role in the war. He believed that Germany should face severe repercussions to prevent any future aggression and to ensure that France would be secure from German threats. Clemenceau's vision was driven by the devastation that France had suffered during the war, including significant loss of life and destruction of infrastructure.

He advocated for harsh reparations and territorial losses for Germany, believing that only through strict measures could France regain a sense of security and deterrence against Germany. This perspective was in stark contrast to other leaders like Woodrow Wilson, who favored a more lenient approach centered on the idea of rebuilding nations through cooperation and self-determination, and Lloyd George, who sought a middle-ground approach. Clemenceau's strong stance at the Treaty of Versailles reflected his desire for France to emerge stronger and more secure, making him the leader most associated with a punitive stance toward Germany after the war.