Notes on the Rise of Nationalism in Europe

Introduction

• Overview of nationalism and its significance in European history.
• Importance of history for examinations and understanding.

The 1848 Revolution

• Frederick Sorio created a notable painting in 1848 depicting the rise of nationalism.
• Germany and Italy were not nation-states in 1848.
• Symbolism: Statue of Liberty represents freedom; France was on the verge of becoming a nation-state.

Key Themes in the Painting

• Utopian Vision: Sorio's depiction presents a dream of unity among nations.
• Liberty: Symbolized by the Statue of Liberty; reflects the aspiration for freedom and fraternity among nations.
• Absolutism: The painting illustrates the breakdown of absolute monarchies.

Nationalism in the 19th Century

• Emergence of nationalism as a powerful force in Europe.
• Factors leading to nationalism: economic, political, and social inequalities.
• Shift from multinational empires to nation-states.

Elements of Nation-States

• Nation-states are defined by:
  • Majority sentiment of citizens (not just rulers).
  • Common history and identity.
  • Common culture, language, and social norms.

The French Revolution (1789)

• A significant expression of nationalism.
• King Louis XVI ruled during the revolution.
• The revolution led to the transfer of sovereignty from monarchy to citizens.
• Establishment of the National Assembly and the concept of a nation formed by the people.

Steps Taken by French Revolutionaries

• Formation of a centralized administrative system with uniform laws.
• Abolishment of internal customs duties.
• Promotion of French as the common language to unify the nation.
• Creation of a national identity through the tri-colored flag.

Napoleonic Era

• Napoleon Bonaparte became a significant figure post-revolution.
• Introduced the Napoleonic Code, which established:
  • Equality before the law.
  • Abolition of feudal privileges.
  • Rights to property.
• Napoleon’s rule centralized power but reverted back to a form of monarchy.

Reactions to Napoleon in Europe

• Initial acceptance by conquered peoples turned to hostility.
• Resistance against French dominance led to a rise in nationalist sentiments.

The Habsburg Empire

• A complex empire with diverse ethnicities and languages.
• Different regions had distinct identities but were unified under the Habsburg rule.

Emergence of a New Middle Class

• Growth of industrial production and trade led to the emergence of a commercial middle class.
• Liberal nationalism: Allied with ideas of freedom and equality.

Liberal Nationalism

• Stood for:
  • National unity and political rights.
  • Consent-based governance and the end of autocracy.
• Limited suffrage—only property-owning men could vote; women had no political rights.

Conservative Response Post-1815

• After Napoleon’s defeat, conservative movements aimed to restore monarchies in Europe.
• The Treaty of Vienna sought to establish stability by restoring traditional institutions.

The Age of Revolutions (1830-1848)

• Revolutionary movements were sparked by liberal nationalists.
• July Revolution in France inspired uprisings across Europe, including Belgium and Greece.
• Greek War of Independence (1821) received support from various European nations.

Conclusion

• The rise of nationalism in Europe was a complex process driven by various social, political, and economic changes.
• The interactions between revolutionary sentiments and conservative reactions shaped the trajectory of European nations.

Further Study

• Continue to engage with the material for deeper understanding.
• Expect to cover more in the next session.