In every other war there has been no threat of the destruction of France.
Indeed, up to 1870 France was the great nation of Europe, greatest in war as well as greatest in peace.

When she attacked Germany in 1870, she started for Berlin with full confidence in her greatness.

And when she paid to the Germans a billion dollars in 1871, it was with scorn and contempt: "Take your money and get out!" When Bismarck in 1875 discovered the prosperity of France, he cunningly set about encompassing her downfall.

He knew the world would not approve of Germany attacking a foreign foe; there was no excuse that could be found.
Therefore, as he himself has confessed, he started France into empire-colonial upbuilding in Africa and Asia, with the full intention of leading her into a clash with England.

When this point was reached many years afterwards, Delcasse clearly saw the situation, and, instead of war, made friends with England.