jess301
Nationalism in Europe 1848
Introduction to Nationalism
Frédéric Sorrieu, a French artist, created prints visualizing a world of democratic republics in 1848.
The first print depicts various nations paying homage to the statue of Liberty, symbolizing liberty and democracy.
Symbolism in Sorrieu's Print
Liberty personified as a female figure holding the torch of Enlightenment and the Charter of Rights.
Shattered remnants of absolutist institutions in the foreground, indicating the decline of oppressive regimes.
Different peoples of Europe identified through flags and traditional costumes.
Utopian Vision in Nationalism
Questioned: How does the print depict a utopian vision?
Nationalism Beyond Borders
By this time, the United States and Switzerland were already established nation-states.
The German flag reflects liberal hopes for unification in 1848 as the German-speaking peoples sought a collective national identity.
Ernst Renan's Concept of a Nation
In 1882, French philosopher Renan discussed what constitutes a nation in his essay "What is a Nation?".
Criticism of the idea that race, language, religion, or territory define a nation.
Attributes of a Nation According to Renan
Common history, past endeavors, sacrifices, and collective memory enhance national identity.
A nation's existence is a daily plebiscite, meaning it's constantly reaffirmed by the people.
Nations guarantee liberty and should not annex territories against the will of the people.
Importance of Nations
Nations act as coalitions of shared sentiments and values.
The French Revolution and National Identity
The revolution (1789) marked the first clear expression of nationalism.
Transfer of sovereignty to the people, emphasizing collective identity through the concepts of la patrie (fatherland) and le citoyen (citizen).
Establishment of a centralized administrative system and uniform laws.
Cultural Revolution During the French Revolution
Introduction of the tricolour flag, new hymns, and commemorations to foster national unity.
Abolishment of regional dialects in favor of a common French language to cultivate a singular national identity.
Expansion of Nationalism
The revolutionaries believed in liberating other European nations from despotism, spreading nationalist ideals while French armies invaded surrounding regions.
Napoleon's Influence on Nationalism
Napoleon introduced several reforms that aligned with revolutionary principles despite restoring monarchy.
The Napoleonic Code established equality before the law and abolished feudal privileges, influencing diverse European territories.
Mixed Reactions to French Rule
Initially welcomed in some regions (e.g., Holland, Switzerland) but faced hostility due to increased taxation and conscription.
The perceived oppression by French authorities led to resistance against occupation.
Emergence of Nation-States
Mid-18th century Europe lacked nation-states; regions were under various dynasties and empires, leading to diverse cultural identities.
Events of the 19th century fostered political clarity and the rise of nationalism as a cohesive ideology.
The Role of the Aristocracy and Middle Class
Social dynamics shifted as liberal, educated middle classes began advocating for their political rights and national unification.
The disintegration of traditional aristocratic structures further fueled ambitions for collective national identities.
Liberal Nationalism in the 19th Century
Liberalism represented freedom, individual rights, and the end of autocracy, initially linked to nationalist movements.
Limitations due to exclusion of women and non-property owners from political rights.
Economic Factors in Nationalism
The establishment of a customs union (Zollverein) among German states in 1834 exemplified economic nationalism, crucial for unifying the states.
The Vienna Congress and Its Consequences
1815 Vienna Congress aimed to restore conservatism post-Napoleonic wars, reinforcing monarchies and suppressing liberal movements.
Established a conservative order resistant to liberal nationalism.
The Role of Revolutionaries
Post-1815, many liberal-nationalists formed secret societies to advocate for political liberalism and national independence, highlighting figures like Giuseppe Mazzini.
Revolutions of 1848
Economic hardship along with the oppression led to revolts by middle-class liberals seeking constitutional reforms and national unification.
Unification Trends in 19th Century Europe
Germany
The rise of Prussia and military leadership under Otto von Bismarck facilitated German unification through a series of wars from 1864 to 1871.
Italy
Italy's unification led by figures like Cavour and Garibaldi, transitioning from fragmented statehood to an integrative national structure.
The Role of Culture in National Identity
Art, literature, and folk traditions created a shared sense of identity, significantly shaping nationalistic sentiments.
The Influence of Romanticism
Romantic poets and artists highlighted emotional connections to the nation, reinforcing collective identities through cultural heritage.
Nationalism and Imperialism
By the late 19th century, nationalism devolved into an aggressive force leading to imperial ambitions and conflicts, particularly in the Balkans.
The interplay between nationalism and imperialism ultimately precipitated catastrophic events like World War I.
Conclusion
Nationalism evolved from a movement supporting liberty and self-rule to an increasingly intolerant and militaristic ideology, leading to global complexities.