The Rise of Nationalism in Europe

The Rise of Nationalism in Europe

• Nationalism emerged as a powerful force in 19th century Europe, replacing multi-national dynastic empires with nation-states.
• Frédéric Sorrieu's 1848 print, "The Dream of Worldwide Democratic and Social Republics," visualises the utopian vision of a world united by democratic republics.
• The print depicts a procession of people from different European nations and America, offering homage to Liberty. Shattered symbols of absolutist institutions lie in the foreground.
• The United States and Switzerland are shown leading the procession, as established nation-states at the time.

What is a Nation? (Ernst Renan)

• Renan's lecture, "What is a Nation?" critiques the idea that nations are defined by common language, race, religion, or territory.
• He argues that a nation is a culmination of a shared past of endeavors, sacrifice and devotion and consists of great men, glorious deeds and desire to perform more.
• A nation is a large-scale solidarity; its existence is a daily plebiscite; a province is its inhabitants.
• Nations are essential for liberty, and their existence is a guarantee of these ideals.

The French Revolution and the Idea of the Nation

• The French Revolution's emphasis on the sovereignty of the French people was a significant impetus for the idea of nationalism.
• Post-revolutionary France's actions, such as the creation of a new flag, the tricolour; hymns and martyrs commemorations, all reinforced the notion of a shared national identity.
• France spread the idea of nationalism to other parts of Europe through its armies, leading to various uprisings.

The Making of Nationalism in Europe: Aristocracy and the Middle Class

• The landed aristocracy formed the dominant social and political class in Europe. Their shared lifestyle transcended regional differences.
• The large class of peasants constituted the majority of the population, and were largely different from the aristocracy.
• The emerging middle class, including industrialists, businessmen, and professionals also contributed to nation-building.

The Making of Nationalism in Europe: Liberalism

• Liberalism emphasized freedom for the individual and equality before the law, centralizing government by consent.
• It signified the end of aristocracy and clerical privileges, the adoption of constitutions, and representative government.

Liberal Nationalism and Popular Revolt

• The 1830s saw economic hardship, population growth, rural-to-urban migration, increased competition from machine-made goods, and the struggle of peasants under feudal dues/obligations.
• In 1848, food shortages and unemployment sparked revolts in various parts of Europe, with the populations of Paris, being a major example.
• These events reflect the growing popular sentiment for national unity and ideals of liberty and freedom.

The Age of Revolutions (1830-1848)

• The conservative regimes of 1815 were challenged by the rising liberal-nationalist movements in many parts of Europe, including Italy, Germany, the provinces of the Ottoman Empire, Ireland, and Poland.
• These movements aimed at overthrowing monarchies and establishing nation-states.
• The Greek War of Independence, fought against Ottoman rule, provided a significant example of nationalist resistance.
• Romantic artists and poets portrayed the nation as a collective entity, emphasizing historical and cultural connections.

The Making of Germany and Italy

• Nationalism in Germany and Italy evolved from political fragmentation towards unified nation-states.
• The unification of Germany was driven by Prussian state power, supported by the army and bureaucracy, through military conflicts and political maneuver.
• In Italy, the process, led by figures like Giuseppe Mazzini and Count Camillo di Cavour, involved a gradual unification, with different regions joining the unified state.