European Ideologies Post-Napoleon

Conservatism's Prevailing Ideology After Napoleon

• Conservatism became the dominant ideology in Europe after Napoleon's reign, aiming to restore pre-Napoleonic social and political order.
• This involved maintaining existing power structures and hierarchies, driven by a desire for stability following the Napoleonic Wars.
• This was particularly influential in restoring monarchies and established institutions.
• The desire to quell revolutionary ideals and maintain the status quo profoundly impacted European politics.

Conservatism, Liberalism, and Radicalism

• Conservatism favored tradition, hierarchy, and the established order.
• Liberalism prioritized individual rights, freedoms, and constitutional government.
• Radicalism championed more significant change, often advocating for democracy and social reform.
• These contrasting ideologies frequently clashed, causing upheaval and revolt across Europe. These conflicts often were central to public discourse, frequently manifested in demonstrations and political debates.

Revolutions and Uprisings (1821, 1830s, 1848)

• European revolutions and uprisings in the 1820s, 1830s, and 1848 were driven by economic hardship, political repression, and nationalist aspirations.
• Numerous uprisings and revolts occurred across Europe during these periods, each differing in motivations and goals based on specific regional contexts.
• Popular participation was often a key element, with demands for greater political freedoms voiced in these uprisings—often in the form of public protests and demonstrations.

Greek Independence Support

• Greek independence was supported by both Russia and Western Europe.
• Russia's support was rooted in shared Orthodox Christian faith and a desire to increase its influence in the region challenged by the Ottoman Empire.
• Western European support stemmed from nationalist sentiment, recognizing Greece's unique historical significance and a desire to challenge the Ottoman Empire.
• This shared support, despite differing motivations, sparked debate on foreign interventions and fostered growing tensions in Europe.

1848 Revolutions' Success/Failure

• The 1848 revolutions were largely unsuccessful in achieving their primary goals, despite initial enthusiasm and widespread participation.
• Limited pockets of success existed but were generally quickly extinguished by established powers.
• Factors like resistance from existing power structures, lack of unified revolutionary action, and varying regional contexts contributed to their failure.
• The general failure highlighted deep-seated opposition to revolutionary change—especially regarding the social and political structures of the time.

France's Ideological Trajectory

• France experienced a significant ideological shift from the Restoration to the Second Empire, marked by frequent shifts in governmental structures.
• This involved a complex series of political transitions that reflected fluctuating strengths of conservatism, liberalism, and radicalism, which significantly shaped France's internal and international standing—especially the nation’s relationship with its surrounding powers.
• These transitions were profoundly influenced by various political and social pressures, including economic fluctuations and social unrest.

Liberal Opposition to Radicals

• Liberals in the Second Republic opposed the radicals and Louis-Napoleon (later Napoleon III).
• This opposition stemmed from differing views on the pace and extent of political and social change.
• These disagreements impacted policy decisions and political alliances, shaping public opinion and political agendas.

Russia's Weakness Compared to Europe

• Russia was comparatively weak compared to other European powers, particularly regarding military technology and economic modernization.
• This weakness was partly attributed to serfdom hindering economic progress and military preparedness.
• The feudal system of serfdom posed significant limitations on Russia’s military and economic advancement relative to other European powers. This contributed to internal strife.

The Crimean War

• Russia's loss in the Crimean War highlighted significant weaknesses in its military and technology compared to other great powers.
• The war exposed Russia's backwardness in military technology, structure, and logistics.
• The war prompted substantial internal changes, including a pressing need to modernize its military and infrastructure.
• The war had a significant impact on Russia's international standing in Europe, forcing Russia to confront its limitations compared to other major powers.

Alexander II's Reforms

• Alexander II implemented significant reforms in Russia, including the Edict of Emancipation.
• The Edict of Emancipation aimed to improve economic development and military strength by granting freedom to serfs. This ushered in a free labor market.
• The consequences were complex and influenced both Russian society and its economy, including both increased social and economic opportunities, but also contributed to significant social unrest following the transition.
• These reforms were attempts to strengthen Russia's position in Europe, as well as modernize its society and economy.