1 NATIONALISM, Explained [AP Euro Review—Unit 7 Topic 2]

Introduction to Nationalism in 19th Century Europe

Overview

Nationalism significantly influenced political, social, and cultural dimensions in Europe between 1815 and 1914. This period saw the transition from empires and kingdoms towards more centralized nation-states, characterized by controlled borders and defined identities. Nationalism reshaped European politics, fostering both unity and discord among diverse ethnic groups.

Understanding the Nation-State

The concept of the nation-state emerged as a crucial political unit in Europe. Nation-states are defined by their shared identity among a populace, centralized governance, and fixed geographical boundaries. It is important to note that borders are not natural; they are historical constructs often defined by the ambitions of influential leaders or the outcomes of conflicts rather than inherent divisions among peoples.

Definition of Nationalism

Nationalism can be defined as a strong identification with one’s own people and cultural heritage. This ideology emphasizes loyalty to the nation and often seeks to create or preserve a nation-state for a specific group.

Components of Nationalism

1. Nation: Individuals sharing a common language, culture, history, and identity. This bond can inspire solidarity and mutual support among members of the same nation.

2. State: The political entity that governs a nation. It illustrates the practical realization of nationalism through institutions that represent the cultural and political aspirations of its people.

Example of Personal Identification

An individual's experiences may lead them to identify more strongly with fellow citizens (like Americans) than with people from other countries (like Cubans), showcasing how nationalism fosters in-group solidarity and social cohesion.

Factors Contributing to the Rise of Nationalism

1. Romantic Idealism:

   • Romantic artists and writers began glorifying the historical and cultural narratives of their nations, igniting emotional connections to national identity. Notable works include the Brothers Grimm's fairy tales and Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables," which romanticized the struggles of the French people.

2. Liberal Reform:

   • The reign of Francis Napoleon III saw significant shifts in French society through economic reforms and the implementation of universal male suffrage, fostering a sense of collective identity and belonging. Improved economic conditions enabled citizens to engage more with their political structure, further promoting nationalism.

3. Political Unification Movements:

   • Activists such as Giuseppe Mazzini, through the Young Italy movement, championed the unification of Italian states, inspiring generations. Although the initial efforts faced challenges, they laid the groundwork for the eventual unification of Italy under leaders like Garibaldi and Cavour in the 1860s.

4. Growing Racialism:

   • The rise of nationalism began to intersect with concepts of racial superiority, leading to both positive and detrimental outcomes. The Pan-Slavic movement stood as a positive force, promoting solidarity among Slavic peoples against the oppressive states of the Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman empires. Conversely, this era also witnessed a surge in anti-Semitic sentiments and rhetoric, prejudicing Jewish communities and increasing societal divisions.

Anti-Semitism in the Context of Nationalism

1. Definition: Anti-Semitism refers to the hostile beliefs and discriminatory actions directed at Jewish individuals and communities. This ideology morphed alongside nationalist thought, leading to widespread marginalization.

2. Historical Context: The treatment of Jews evolved significantly in Europe during this time, often marked by periods of tolerance quickly followed by episodes of severe repression.

   • Notable Event: The Dreyfus Affair in 1894 stands prominently in this context. Captain Alfred Dreyfus, a Jewish officer in the French army, was wrongfully accused of treason, showcasing deep-rooted anti-Semitic attitudes that polarized French society and ultimately led to waves of renewed hatred and violence, exemplified by pogroms.

3. Zionism:

   • In response to widespread anti-Semitism, the Zionist movement emerged. Theodore Herzl played a pivotal role, advocating for a Jewish homeland in Palestine, which directed significant political energy toward establishing a sovereign state for Jewish people, culminating in the creation of Israel post-World War II.

Nationalism and Conservatism

• The era of conservatism in Europe was reinvigorated by the strategies of the Concert of Europe under Metternich. Conservatism aimed at stabilizing political structures often threatened by nationalist movements.

• Examples such as Otto von Bismarck from Prussia utilized nationalism effectively to consolidate power, applying a strategy of "blood and iron" to unify Germany, rallying public sentiment around the idea of a strong, centralized nation-state and provoking wars that escalated national consciousness.

Dual Monarchy of Austria-Hungary

• The Dual Monarchy was a direct response to rising Hungarian nationalism, resulting from the revolutions of 1848. Compromises led to the establishment of a dual monarchy, aiming to mitigate the growing nationalist pressures while maintaining a semblance of unified governance within the vast Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Conclusion

The growing fervor for nationalism during the 19th century laid the groundwork for significant political transformations, ultimately leading to the establishment of distinct nation-states across Europe. The legacy of this period will be explored in subsequent discussions focused on both the immediate and long-term impacts of nationalism and its evolution in European history.