Final answer:
Wilson clashed with Clemenceau over the treaty due to their different goals and priorities. Wilson focused on creating a lasting peace through the League of Nations, while Clemenceau wanted to punish Germany and secure reparations for France.
Step-by-step explanation:
President Wilson clashed with Clemenceau over the treaty because they had different goals and priorities. Wilson wanted to focus on creating a lasting peace through the establishment of the League of Nations and the principle of self-determination. Clemenceau, on the other hand, wanted to punish Germany and secure reparations and territorial gains for France. Their differing views led to tension and disagreements during the negotiation process.
For example, Wilson's Fourteen Points included the idea of self-determination, which conflicted with France's desire to secure territorial gains at Germany's expense. There were also disagreements over Germany's responsibility for the war and the amount of reparations they should pay.
In the end, Wilson's vision for the treaty was compromised, and he faced opposition from both Republicans in the Senate and from other Allied leaders, including Clemenceau.