The Age of Revolutions: 1830-1848
This section delves into the tumultuous period of the Age of Revolutions, where nationalism surged across Europe and reshaped political landscapes. The artist Frédéric Sorrieu's prints from 1848 visualized a world of democratic republics, symbolizing the zeitgeist of the era.
Key themes include:
1. Nationalism's Evolution: The concept of the nation-state began to take shape, moving away from multi-national empires to distinct national identities. Ernst Renan's lecture highlighted the collective identity forged through a shared past, further emphasizing the cultural and historical aspects of nationalism.
2. Historical Context of Nationalism: The French Revolution of 1789 laid groundwork for nationalist sentiments, asserting that the people, not monarchs, constituted the nation. This sense of national identity was nurtured through various social, cultural, and administrative reforms.
3. Romanticism and National Identity: An essential cultural shift during this era was the rise of Romanticism, which highlighted emotions and the collective heritage of nations. Figures like Johann Gottfried Herder promoted the idea of folk culture as central to national identity.
4. Revolutions of 1848: This year marked a wave of revolutions driven by liberal-nationalists, predominantly from the educated middle-class seeking political representation and social rights. The revolutions, while initially successful, faced backlash from conservative forces, leading to mixed outcomes in various countries.
5. Role of Women: The section highlights the often-overlooked participation of women in these nationalist movements, as well as the paradox between their involvement and the limited recognition of their rights during this period.
This transformative time set the stage for various nation-states and ignited tensions that would manifest in future conflicts across Europe.