Nationalism in Europe: An Overview

Study Notes

Nationalism in Europe

Nationalism began to emerge in Europe during the Renaissance, gaining momentum post-French Revolution of 1789.
Napoleon Bonaparte played a pivotal role in spreading nationalism through his conquests, merging smaller states into larger nations.
His actions significantly influenced the subsequent unification efforts of Italy and Germany.
The Congress of Vienna, led by Metternich, aimed to dismantle the Napoleonic system and restore Europe's political order.
Major powers at the Congress included Britain, Prussia, Russia, and Austria, with Metternich advocating for the maintenance of the old regime.
Italy was fragmented again into various territories post-Napoleon, with the Bourbon monarchy reinstated.
Reformists such as Mezzani, Kabur, and Garibaldi resisted these changes, ultimately aiding in Italy's unification.
Otto von Bismarck emerged as a key supporter of the new German state and was appointed Chancellor of Germany following unification efforts.
Inspired by Italy and Germany, the Greeks sought independence from the Ottoman Empire, leveraging their rich historical and cultural heritage.
Ancient Greece contributed significantly to various fields like literature, philosophy, art, and medicine, particularly impacting modern practices such as Unani medicine.
Factors supporting Greek national identity included a shared religion, culture, language, and communal ties.
A series of uprisings led to negotiations with Turkey, culminating in Greece achieving independence despite Turkish support from Egypt.
The rise of nationalism in Europe fueled imperialistic endeavors, with European powers expanding their rule over Africa, Asia, North and South America, and Australia.
Indigenous populations in colonized regions suffered devastating consequences, including displacement and violence.