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What was the system of Metternich and how was it undermined, 1815-1848? The system of Metternich, established after the Congress of Vienna in 1815, aimed to maintain the balance of power in Europe and suppress revolutionary movements - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2010
Question 1
What was the system of Metternich and how was it undermined, 1815-1848? The system of Metternich, established after the Congress of Vienna in 1815, aimed to maintai... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:What was the system of Metternich and how was it undermined, 1815-1848? The system of Metternich, established after the Congress of Vienna in 1815, aimed to maintain the balance of power in Europe and suppress revolutionary movements - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2010
Step 1
What was the system of Metternich?
Answer
The system of Metternich was characterized by a conservative political framework established after the Napoleonic Wars, particularly during the Congress of Vienna in 1815. It focused on the restoration of legitimate monarchs, preservation of the balance of power, and suppression of revolutionary movements across Europe. Metternich implemented a network of alliances among the great powers to counteract any potential threats to the established order. The fundamental principles included the legitimacy of monarchs, the importance of aristocratic rule, and the use of military intervention to maintain order.
Step 2
How was it undermined, 1815-1848?
Answer
The undermining of Metternich’s system occurred due to several interlinked factors:
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Rise of Nationalism: Various ethnic groups, feeling marginalized under imperial rule, began to assert their national identities, leading to uprisings that challenged the existing political framework.
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Economic Instability: Economic crises, including poor harvests and industrial depression, created widespread discontent among the populace, pushing them to seek political reform and social change.
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Spread of Liberal Ideas: The Enlightenment had fostered democratic ideals and notions of individual rights, garnering support for liberal movements that sought greater freedoms and participatory governance.
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Revolutions of 1848: These revolutions across Europe were a culmination of the dissatisfaction with conservative rule, resulting in the overthrow of several monarchies and a significant realignment of political power, which ultimately led to the collapse of Metternich’s system.