Chapter 4.1 Age of Ideologies

Focus Question What events proved that Metternich was correct in his fears?

Conservatives Prefer the Old Order The Congress of Vienna was a conference of the major powers of Europe, chaired by Austrian Prince Metternich and held in Vienna from 1814 to 1815. Its purpose was to settle issues and to redraw the political map back to 1792.

Conservatives Prefer the Old Order Cont. The chief goal was to create a lasting peace by establishing a balance of power. Countries pledged to act together to maintain the balance of power and many monarchs were restored to their thrones. Leaders met often to ensure the balance was maintained.

Conservatives Prefer the Old Order Cont. The Congress was a victory for monarchs, nobles, landowners and conservatives who tried to suppress revolutionary ideas and nationalism. Conservatives supported a social order in which lower classes respected and obeyed their social superiors. Metternich urged monarchs to oppose freedom of the press and crush rebellion.

Conservatives Prefer the Old Order Cont. Some challenged the old order imposed in 1815. This clash of people with opposing ideologies (thoughts and beliefs) plunged Europe into more than 30 years of turmoil!

Liberals and Nationalists Seek Change Liberals and Nationalists challenged the Conservatives about everything! Liberals spoke mostly for the “bourgeoisie” or middle class, and believed in limited government and freedom of speech.

Liberals and Nationalists Seek Change Cont. They also believed in a laissez-faire/free market economy. In the early 1800’s, Liberals thought only male property owners should vote. Later on however, they supported universal manhood suffrage for all men.

Liberals and Nationalists Seek Change Cont. For centuries, European rulers had gained or lost land through wars, marriages and treaties. As a result, by 1815 Europe had several empires (Austrian and Ottoman) that included many diverse people. intolerance and persecution was wide spread.

Liberals and Nationalists Seek Change Cont. In the 1800’s, national groups who shared a common heritage set out to win their own states. Nationalism gave people a sense of identity and helped them unify.

Central Europe Challenges Old Order Rebellions erupted in the Balkan Peninsula and other areas where the Ottoman Empire had ruled for 300+ years. The first to rebel was Serbia who wanted autonomy. (self rule) Not successful

Central Europe Challenges Old Order Continued The Greeks also revolted against Ottoman rule and with support from several European countries gained their independence in 1830. Greece to accept a German King (and bend to European countries wants) accept a German king.

Other Europe Nations Challenge Old Order Several other revolts erupted in the 1820’s, including those in Spain, Portugal and Italy. Rebels struggled to gain constitutional governments. Metternich urged military troops to help rulers crush the uprisings.

Other Europe Nations Challenge Old Order Cont. Troops tried and failed to put out the fires of liberalism and nationalism. Liberal and nationalist demands were the goals of the new industrial working class.