Why did Clemenceau oppose Wilson's views on disarmament and self-determination?

Clemenceau's opposition to Wilson's views on disarmament and self-determination was rooted in his concern for France's national security. After experiencing the devastation of World War I, Clemenceau was primarily focused on ensuring that France would not be left vulnerable to future attacks, particularly from Germany. He believed that disarmament could weaken France's defensive capabilities, making it more susceptible to aggression. Moreover, the notion of self-determination was seen as potentially destabilizing to the political landscape of Europe, where ethnic and national tensions could arise. Clemenceau's perspective emphasized the need for a strong France that could protect itself and maintain order in the region, reflecting his priorities in the post-war peace process.

Other viewpoints, while significant, did not capture the essence of Clemenceau's defensive stance; he was not necessarily opposing Wilson because he thought his ideas were extreme or favored Germany, nor was his ambition to create a strong European alliance solely about unification. Rather, it was primarily his concern for French security that drove his opposition to Wilson's proposals.