The Revolt Against The Old Order Why was Europe plagued by revolts after 1815? Revolutionaries were fighting against the old order. In the 1800’s rebellions against liberalism and nationalism erupted in the Balkan Peninsula. The rebellion was successful and the land was taken over by various religions and ethnic groups.

Independence for Serbia and Greece Karageorge (the Serb leader) led a guerrilla warfare against the Ottomans and failed. Milos Obrenovic led a successful rebellion which led to the independence of Serbia. In 1821, Greeks fought wars of independence that shaped their national identity. In 1830, Greeks were independent.

Other Challenges Revolts occurred in the southern fringe of Europe and the French armies had a revolt in Spain. Metternich urged conservative rulers to act decisively and crush the dangerous uprisings. Austrians smashed rebellious outbreaks in Italy. Goals of the new industrial working classes added to liberal and nationalist demands which urged workers to support socialism.