The Big Four and Others of the Peace Conference - By Robert Lansing (Paperback)

Book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1922. Excerpt: ... I CLEMENCEAU Of the four heads of states M. Clemenceau, the president of the Peace Conference, was, in my judgment, the dominant figure and the strongest man of the many strong men who participated in the negotiations at Paris. Possibly his age, which in no way impaired his keenness of wit or vigor of address, his long and turbulent political career, and the courage and firmness which he had shown during the perils of the German offensive in May, June, and July, 1918, had much to do with the impression which he made upon me. But without the background of accomplishment M. Clemenceau possessed a strength of character and a forcefulness which would have raised him above his colleagues. Persistent though patient, he was always ready, when the moment arrived, to use all his skill and cleverness in debate to obtain a decision which would be in the interest of his country. Every question was viewed by him in the light of how it would affect France. He was supremely nationalistic and interpreted international adjustments into na tional terms. To advance French interests was his dominant purpose. When President Wilson arrived in France about the middle of December, 1918, and was everywhere received with unparalleled enthusiasm by the people, who believed him to be the apostle of human rights and the uncompromising champion of a just peace, M. Clemenceau doubtless witnessed the ovations accorded the President with a measure of uncertainty as to the man who was thus idolized and who so manifestly had the confidence of the French people. Essentially practical, he looked forward, I imagine, to the time when these first outbursts of enthusiasm would subside and the popular mind would become more normal. The shrewd old statesman, familiar from- long experience with every phase of the emotional Fr...