Hemilar Nationalism(1815-1940)

AP European History Unit 7 Notes: Nationalism in Europe (1815-1940)

Introduction

  • Presenter: Steve Heimler
  • Focus: Strong nationalism across Europe in the 19th century
  • Time period: 1815 to 1940
  • Reminder: Check the AP Euro review pack for practice questions and review videos.

Concept of Nation-State

  • Definition: Nation-State - A political entity characterized by defined territorial boundaries, centralized government, and a population that identifies as a singular nationality.
    • Borders: Conceptual lines on maps created by powerful people; not physically present in the landscape.

Emergence of Nationalism

  • Nationalism: A strong sense of identification with one’s own people and cultural heritage.
    • Key elements:
    • Shared history
    • Shared language
  • Example for understanding: Steve Heimler's own experience of feeling more connected to Californians (Americans) compared to Cubans due to shared cultural heritage.

Factors Contributing to the Rise of Nationalism

  1. Romantic Idealism

    • Romanticism influenced nationalism by glorifying the past and creating emotional fervor.
      • Examples:
      • The Grimm Brothers' collection of German fairy tales emphasized a shared cultural identity, enhancing German nationalism.
      • Victor Hugo's novel Les Misérables depicted the triumph of the French people, further uniting them emotionally.

  2. Liberal Reform

    • Notable figure: Francis Napoleon III (nephew of Bonaparte)
    • Actions taken:
      • Promoted international trade, boosting the French economy.
      • Instituted universal male suffrage, gaining popular support.
      • Overhauled Paris, which further enhanced French nationalism.

  3. Political Unification Movements

    • Giuseppe Mazzini and Young Italy:
      • Advocated for the unification of Italian states into a single nation.
      • Although unsuccessful at the time, laid groundwork for later unification.

  4. Racialism

    • Definition: The belief in the superiority of one race over another.
    • Positive implication: Pan-Slavism - A movement among Slavic peoples seeking self-determination under imperial rule.
      • Russia supported this along with other Slavic nations, culminating in conflict with the Ottomans.
    • Negative implication: Rise of antisemitism.
Antisemitism
  • Definition: Racial discrimination against Jews.
  • Historical context: Jews historically marginalized in Europe gaining some equality in various states.
    • Rise in antisemitism correlated with the rise of nationalism.
    • Example: The Dreyfus Affair (1894)
    • Alfred Dreyfus, a Jewish French army captain, falsely accused of treason.
    • Divided French society: Some believed the trial was based on antisemitic motives, while others saw the accusations as credible.
    • Result: Dreyfus was pardoned after 10 years, but his case revived European antisemitism.
  • Outcome in Eastern Europe: Increased incidents of pogroms against Jews.
Response to Antisemitism
  • The rise of Zionism:
    • Founded by Theodor Herzl in 1895.
    • Advocated for a Jewish homeland in Palestine as a refuge from European antisemitism.
    • Set the groundwork for future establishment of the state of Israel.

Conservative Responses to Nationalism

  • Historical context: Conservatism under the influence of leaders like Clemens von Metternich and the Concert of Europe.
  • New generation of neoconservative leaders harnessing nationalism for state control.
    • Example: Otto von Bismarck of Prussia
    • Increased nationalism to unify Germany through provoked wars.

The Dual Monarchy of Hungary

  • After 1848 revolutions, Austria tried to suppress growing Hungarian nationalism.
  • Compromise resulted in the establishment of the dual monarchy:
    • Joint leadership by Austrian and Hungarian monarchs to stabilize their governance.

Conclusion

  • Nationalism has not only drawn imaginary lines on maps but has also had substantial political ramifications in Europe.
  • Anticipation of further developments in nationalism and its consequences in future discussions and videos.