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The Rise of Nationalism in Europe Notes

The document discusses the rise of nationalism in Europe, highlighting the transition from monarchies to nation-states, influenced by events like the French Revolution and the ideas of thinkers like Ernst Renan. It covers key developments such as the unification of Germany and Italy, the role of liberal nationalism, and the impact of revolutions in 1830 and 1848. Additionally, it addresses the relationship between nationalism and imperialism, culminating in global movements for independence.

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1 views4 pages

The Rise of Nationalism in Europe Notes

The document discusses the rise of nationalism in Europe, highlighting the transition from monarchies to nation-states, influenced by events like the French Revolution and the ideas of thinkers like Ernst Renan. It covers key developments such as the unification of Germany and Italy, the role of liberal nationalism, and the impact of revolutions in 1830 and 1848. Additionally, it addresses the relationship between nationalism and imperialism, culminating in global movements for independence.

Uploaded by

tutorialbrajesh54224
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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The Rise of Nationalism in Europe - Class 10 Notes

1. Introduction to Nationalism in Europe

Nationalism is the idea that people with a common identity, language, culture, and history should unite to

form an independent nation. This chapter discusses how Europe transitioned from monarchies and empires

to modern nation-states. A famous visual by Frédéric Sorrieu in 1848 depicted a utopian world of democratic

nations. The Statue of Liberty in his print symbolized freedom, while broken monarchy symbols lay at her

feet.

2. Ernst Renan's Idea of a Nation

Ernst Renan, a French philosopher, said that a nation is not just a shared language or race but a shared

history and the willingness to live together. According to him, nations are built on past sacrifices and

collective pride. He strongly believed in democratic values and respect for the will of the people.

3. The French Revolution and Nationalism

The French Revolution (1789) shifted power from monarchy to citizens. The revolution introduced a tricolour

flag, national anthem, centralized administration, and equal laws. The French language became common,

and customs duties were removed. Revolutionaries also believed in spreading these ideas across Europe.

4. Napoleon and His Reforms

Napoleon became emperor in 1804. Though he ended democracy, he introduced the Civil Code (Napoleonic

Code):

- Ended privileges by birth

- Equality before law

- Right to property

- Uniform system of weights, measures, and currency

- Simplified administration and abolished feudalism

But later, people opposed his rule due to censorship, high taxes, and forced army recruitment.

5. Aristocracy and the New Middle Class

In early 19th century Europe:


The Rise of Nationalism in Europe - Class 10 Notes

- Aristocracy was the dominant landowning class. They spoke French, intermarried, and lived in estates and

city homes.

- Peasants were the majority, especially in the east.

- Middle class grew with industrialization-businessmen, professionals, and educated liberals who wanted a

nation with equality and freedom.

6. What Did Liberal Nationalism Stand For?

Liberalism meant:

- Freedom for individuals

- Equality before the law

- Government by consent

- End of autocracy

However, voting rights were only for property-owning men. Women and poor men were excluded.

Economically, liberalism supported free markets and trade.

Zollverein (1834) was a customs union in German states initiated by Prussia that removed trade barriers and

united economies.

7. Rise of Conservatism and Vienna Congress (1815)

After Napoleon's defeat, European powers met at the Congress of Vienna to restore monarchies. Led by

Metternich (Austria), the treaty:

- Restored Bourbon dynasty in France

- Strengthened Prussia and Austria

- Redrew European boundaries

Conservative governments imposed censorship and crushed opposition, but liberal-nationalist ideas kept

growing underground.

8. The Revolutionaries and Secret Societies

Liberal nationalists formed secret societies to oppose monarchies. Giuseppe Mazzini from Italy founded

'Young Italy' and 'Young Europe'. He believed in a united, democratic Italy. His ideas inspired revolutions

across Europe. Conservatives feared him-Metternich called him a threat to social order.
The Rise of Nationalism in Europe - Class 10 Notes

9. 1830 & 1848 Revolutions and Hunger

Economic hardship and high food prices caused revolts in 1830 and 1848. In 1848:

- France overthrew its king, started a republic

- Silesian weavers in Germany revolted for better wages

- Frankfurt Parliament tried to unify Germany, but failed

- Women participated in protests but had no voting rights

These revolts failed but pushed monarchies to reform.

10. Unification of Germany and Italy

Germany:

- Led by Prussia and Otto von Bismarck

- Won wars against Denmark, Austria, and France

- United in 1871 with Kaiser William I as emperor

Italy:

- Mazzini (vision), Cavour (diplomat), Garibaldi (fighter)

- Unified under King Victor Emmanuel II in 1861

- Southern peasants didn't understand 'Italia'; they supported Garibaldi as a hero

11. Britain's Case and Visualising the Nation

Unlike revolutions in Europe, Britain became a nation through gradual steps. England dominated Scotland

and Ireland.

- Act of Union (1707) unified England and Scotland

- Ireland was forced into the UK in 1801

- English culture was imposed (language, anthem)

Artists personified nations as women:

- France: Marianne

- Germany: Germania

These were symbols of unity, liberty, and nationalism.


The Rise of Nationalism in Europe - Class 10 Notes

12. Nationalism and Imperialism

By late 1800s, nationalism turned aggressive.

- Balkan region (Slavs) under Ottoman rule saw rise of nationalism

- Russia, Germany, and others used nationalism for imperialism

- Rivalries in the Balkans led to wars, and eventually World War I

Nationalism became a global idea as colonies fought to become independent nation-states.

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