The Metternich System
• The purpose of Metternich’s plan was to keep control of
Europe in the hands of conservatives.
– “Concert of Europe” – a peacekeeping alliance pledging to
maintain a “balance of power” and suppress uprisings.
• Metternich set up a system of spies to report any criticism
of the government. Spies were put in schools, social clubs
and colleges. Those suspected were arrested, jailed, exiled
or killed.
The Metternich System
• A system of censorship was used to control any writing which
may criticize the government. (censorship – the act of
examining literature, mail and other printed works and
removing or prohibiting anything considered objectionable)
• The Metternich System would also use the military force of its
members if necessary to control the people and any uprisings
they may start.
In conclusion…
The Congress of Vienna set the stage for European
politics for the next 100 years.
• The Congress of Vienna attempted to kill the ideas of
the French Revolution; modern nationalism and
democracy. It could not.
• A balance of power is established in Europe.
• Conservatives control politics in Europe.
• The concert of Europe was created to suppress
revolution.
• Europe experienced peace. The continent would not
experience a war comparable to the Napoleonic Age
until 1914.
• Settlements were fair…no country was left bearing a
grudge which could lead to future conflicts or wars.
The Congress of Vienna was a successful political
meeting.
New Political Philosophies Developed The
French Revolution had been Europe’s first experiment in democratic
government. The experience failed, but the new political ideas began to
develop.
• Conservatism – Revolution accomplished nothing but
harm.
– Their goal was to protect, or conserve traditional
forms of government.
– Extreme conservatives supported absolute
monarchs. Moderate conservatives supported
constitutional monarchs.
– Support came from wealthy landowners and
nobles.
– The Congress of Vienna was a victory for the
Conservatives.
New Political Philosophies Developed The
French Revolution had been Europe’s first experiment in democratic
government. The experience failed, but the new political ideas began to
develop.
• Liberalism – Approved of the early reforms of the French
Revolution, but hated the later violence during the Reign of
Terror.
– Favored power of elected parliaments, but not many
favored democracy.
– Wanted limited parliaments elected from the educated
and property owners.
– Feared “mob” rule just as the conservatives did.
– Support came from the upper bourgeoisie, business
leaders and merchants. These people were often barred
from politics because they were not of noble birth.
New Political Philosophies Developed The
French Revolution had been Europe’s first experiment in democratic
government. The experience failed, but the new political ideas began to
develop.
• Radicalism – Supporters of democratic government. Everyone
can participate equally.
– Many felt that the Reign of Terror was necessary. Radicals
favored drastic and, if necessary, violent change.
– They believed that governments should practice the ideals
of the French Revolution; liberty, equality and fraternity.
– Support sometimes came from the working class. Support
also came from intellectuals and students.
