Why Did The Allies Impose Such Harsh Terms On Germany Under The Treaty Of Versailles Allies view

In France, George Clemenceau was satisfied to a point with the treaty. He accepted Article 231, the disarmament clauses of the Treaty, getting back Alsace-Lorraine, and being given Germany colonies as mandates on behalf of the League of Nations. However, he was unhappy that France got the Saar coalfields for only 15 years, and he was angry that the Rhineland was merely demilitarized. France had wanted the Rhineland made into a powerless independent country, and Germany split up. Also, Clemenceau wanted reparations so high that Germany would be crippled, however the Britain received some of the German colonies, which was one of their aims. Overall, after the treaty they considered it fairly acceptable and were contented for a while. Germany's military force was weakened, meaning less threat to the empire. However, eventually it was thought the treaty was too harsh on Germany, and also it didn't deal with Germany's eastern borders, which Lloyd-George considered a possible trouble spot in the future loyd-George liked the reduction of the German navy, for it ensured that 'Britannia ruled the waves'. However, he was suspicious about the annexation of the League of Nations, and opposed self determination, thinking it would cause problems in the future. His predictions of another war were accurate. Wilson agreed with the self-determination and a League of Nations, but felt let down because few of his fourteen points were included. They all benefited in the way of certain compensations and new land, however tensions still remained high all over Europe. It's safe to say that the treaty did not meet the requirements of a peace agreement, rather it was a compromise barely satisfying all parties involved. http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2995392/was_the_treaty_of_versailles_a_successful_pg2.h tml?cat=37