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Why did people in France and Britain agree with Wilson's 14 points?

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Final answer:

Some in France and Britain supported the idea of self-determination, freedom of the seas, and the establishment of the League of Nations from Wilson's Fourteen Points, seeing them as preventative measures for future wars. However, the Treaty of Versailles reflected that, despite this, the Allies prioritized their immediate interests over Wilson's broader ideals.

Step-by-step explanation:

Some factions in France and Britain found common ground with President Woodrow Wilson's Fourteen Points because the points proposed ideas like self-determination, freedom of the seas, and the rights of neutral nations. These were seen as ways to prevent future conflicts and establish a stable, peaceful international order. Wilson also put forward the idea of the League of Nations, which presented an opportunity for countries to resolve issues through mutual cooperation rather than warfare, aligning with the broader desire to avoid another devastating conflict like World War I.

However, it is important to note that although these concepts were appealing, the reality of negotiation led to the Allies pushing back on many of Wilson's proposals. The leaders of Britain and France had more immediate concerns such as imperial interests, security guarantees, and financial reparations which they prioritized over Wilson's idealistic vision. In the end, while the sentiment behind the Fourteen Points was admired, the Allies chose to secure their own interests in the Treaty of Versailles at the expense of many of Wilson's ideals.

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