The Rise of Nationalism in Europe
The Rise of Nationalism in Europe-Frédéric Sorrieu's Vision:
In 1848, French artist Frédéric Sorrieu visualized a world of democratic and Social Republics. His first print shows the people of Europe and America marching and offering homage to the Statue of Liberty. He grouped the world's people into distinct nations, identified by their flags and national costumes. Christ, saints, and angels in the heavens symbolize fraternity among nations.
The French Revolution and the Idea of the Nation:- Nationalism emerged with the French Revolution in 1789, shifting sovereignty from the monarchy to French citizens. Ideas like *la patrie* (the fatherland) and *le citoyen* (the citizen) were introduced. The tricolor flag replaced the old one. While Napoleon ended democracy in France, the Civil Code of 1804 (Napoleonic Code) abolished birth-based privileges, established equality before the law, and secured property rights.
The Napoleonic Code (Civil Code of 1804):
Introduced after Napoleon's overthrow of democracy, this code eliminated birth-based privileges, ensured equality before the law, and protected property rights.
The Making of Nationalism in Europe:
Germany, Italy, and Switzerland were divided into kingdoms, duchies, and cantons with autonomous rulers. The aristocracy was the dominant class, while most people were peasants. Industrialization in England led to new social groups like the working and middle classes. Liberal nationalism advocated for freedom, but voting was limited to property-owning men. Conservatism in 1815 favored monarchy and social hierarchies.
Liberal Nationalism:
Derived from the Latin word liber, meaning free. Voting rights were mainly for property-owning men. In 1834, a customs union (Zollverein) was formed, abolishing tariff barriers and reducing the number of currencies. Liberal nationalists criticized the new conservative order, advocating for freedom of the press. In 1848, the liberal middle class demanded a nation-state based on parliamentary principles, including a constitution, freedom of the press, and freedom of association.
A New Conservatism after 1815:
European governments emphasized conservatism, believing in monarchy, the Church, social hierarchies, and property. They thought a modern army, efficient bureaucracy, dynamic economy, and the end of feudalism could strengthen monarchies. In 1815, European powers met in Vienna to reorganize Europe. The Bourbon dynasty was restored, and France lost territories annexed under Napoleon.
The Age of Revolutions (1830-1848):
In July 1830, liberal revolutionaries overthrew Bourbon Kings, establishing a constitutional monarchy. This sparked an uprising in Brussels, leading to Belgium's separation from the Netherlands. In 1821, Greeks fought for independence.
The Making of Germany and Italy:
Germany and Italy unified as nation-states after 1848. Prussia led the unification of Germany, with Otto von Bismarck as the key figure. In January 1871, the Prussian King, William I, became German Emperor. Italy was divided into seven states in the mid-19th century. In 1861, Victor Emmanuel II was proclaimed king of a united Italy.
Visualizing the Nation:
In the 18th and 19th centuries, artists began representing countries as people and nations as female figures. During the French Revolution, female figures symbolized ideas like Liberty, Justice, and the Republic.
Nationalism and Imperialism:
After 1871, nationalism became more intolerant. The Balkans, comprising modern-day Romania, Bulgaria, Albania, Greece, etc., became a tense area. European powers competed over trade, colonies, and military strength, leading to wars and eventually World War I. Nationalism, combined with imperialism, caused disaster in Europe. Anti-imperial movements emerged, striving to form independent nation-states, which became a widely accepted idea.
Glimpses.....
Chapter 1: The Rise of Nationalism in Europe
1. Introduction
- Nationalism refers to a sense of unity and collective identity among people of a nation.
- Before the 19th century, Europe was divided into multi-ethnic empires.
- The idea of nationalism gained momentum after the French Revolution (1789) and spread across Europe.
2. The French Revolution and the Idea of the Nation
- The French Revolution of 1789 played a crucial role in shaping nationalism.
- Revolutionary leaders introduced the concept of "La Patrie" (the fatherland) and "Le Citoyen" (the citizen).
- Reforms introduced:
- Abolition of monarchy and establishment of a republic.
- Equality before the law and introduction of democratic rights.
- Promotion of a common national identity through French language, national flag, and uniform laws.
- Napoleonic Code (1804):
- Abolished feudalism and privileges.
- Established a uniform legal system across France and the regions conquered by Napoleon.
- Encouraged the growth of national consciousness in Europe.
3. Nationalism in Europe Before the 19th Century
- Europe consisted of monarchies and diverse ethnic groups under single rulers.
- No concept of a unified "nation-state".
- Liberal Nationalism:
- Supported constitutional governments, democracy, and economic freedom.
- Opposed monarchical rule and aristocratic privileges.
4. The Age of Revolutions (1830-1848)
- The Greek War of Independence (1821-1829):
- Greece fought against Ottoman rule.
- Received support from European powers and won independence in 1832.
- The Revolution of 1830 (France):
- Overthrew King Charles X and established a constitutional monarchy under Louis Philippe.
- The Revolution of 1848 (France and Europe):
- France became a republic again; universal male suffrage introduced.
- Germany, Italy, Austria, and Hungary also saw uprisings demanding democratic reforms.
5. Unification Movements
- Unification of Italy (1861):
- Led by Giuseppe Mazzini, Count Cavour, and Giuseppe Garibaldi.
- King Victor Emmanuel II became the ruler of unified Italy in 1871.
- Unification of Germany (1871):
- Led by Otto von Bismarck, the Prime Minister of Prussia.
- Germany was unified after three wars (against Denmark, Austria, and France).
- King Kaiser Wilhelm I became the first Emperor of Germany.
6. Nationalism and Imperialism
- Late 19th century nationalism led to competitive expansion (imperialism).
- European powers competed for colonies, leading to tensions.
- Balkan region became a conflict zone, contributing to World War I (1914-1918).
Conclusion
- Nationalism played a significant role in reshaping Europe's political map.
- It led to unifications (Germany, Italy) and conflicts (Balkan wars, World War I).
- The concept of nation-states gradually became dominant in the modern world.
Comments
Post a Comment