🌍

Nationalism in 19th Century Europe

Mar 3, 2025

AP European History: Nationalism (1815-1914)

Introduction to Nationalism

  • Presenter: Steve Heimler
  • Time Period: 1815-1914
  • Topic: The rise and consequences of nationalism in 19th-century Europe.

Nation-State Concept

  • Nation-State: Dominated 19th-century Europe; a new political organization.
  • Borders are imaginary lines created by powerful people.
  • Example: Borders between countries are conceptual, not physical.

Rise of Nationalism

  • Nationalism: Strong identification with one's people and cultural heritage.
  • Components:
    • Nation: People with shared language and culture.
    • State: Land with borders and a governing body.
  • Personal Example: Greater identification with fellow Americans (e.g., Californians) vs. geographical proximity (e.g., Cuba).

Encouragement of Loyalty to the State

  1. Romantic Idealism
    • Romanticism glorified pasts, strengthening national identity.
    • Example: Grimm Brothers' fairy tales, Victor Hugo's novels.
  2. Liberal Reform
    • Key Figure: Napoleon III of France.
    • Initiatives: International trade, economy boost, universal male suffrage, and urban development.
  3. Political Unification Movements
    • Italian Unification: Giuseppe Mazzini and "Young Italy" movement.
  4. Racialism
    • Positive: Pan-Slavic movement against Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman Empires.
    • Negative: Rise of anti-Semitism.

Anti-Semitism and Zionism

  • Dreyfus Affair: Jewish French Captain accused of treason; divided French society.
  • Pogroms: Violent attacks on Jews.
  • Zionism: Jewish nationalist movement led by Theodor Herzl advocating for a Jewish homeland in Palestine.

Neoconservatism and Nationalism

  • Conservative Leaders: Utilized nationalism to strengthen state control.
  • Napoleon III: Used liberal reforms.
  • Otto von Bismarck
    • Role: Prime Minister of Prussia.
    • Actions: Provoked wars to unify German states.
  • Austro-Hungarian Dual Monarchy
    • Response to Hungarian nationalism leading to a dual monarchy.

Conclusion

  • Rise of nationalism led to significant political restructuring in Europe.
  • Next steps: Explore how nationalism led to real changes on the map.

For more study aids and materials, consider checking additional resources or review packs.

Full transcript