Chapter 1: The Rise of Nationalism in Europe - Class 10 History 10th

Chapter 1: The Rise of Nationalism in Europe

Introduction:

1. Explores the emergence and growth of nationalism in Europe during the 19th century.
2. Nationalism refers to a strong sense of identity and loyalty towards one's nation, often leading to self-rule and independence.
3. In the 19th century, nationalism changed both the political and mental world of Europe.

The French Revolution and the Idea of the Nation

1. The French Revolution of 1789 was the first clear expression of nationalism.
2. Steps taken by the French Revolutionaries:
   • La patrie (the fatherland) and Le citoyen (the citizen) promoted collective identity.
   • A new French flag was adopted.
   • The Estates General was elected and renamed the National Assembly.
   • New hymns were composed, and oaths were taken.
   • Centralized administrative system was implemented.
   • Abolition of internal customs duties and dues.
   • Introduction of a uniform system of weights and measures.
   • French became the common language.

Napoleon Bonaparte

1. Ruled France from 1799 to 1815.
2. Gained absolute powers in 1799 by becoming the First Consul.

Napoleonic Code / Civil Code of 1804

1. Equality before the law was established.
2. Secured the right to property.
3. Simplified administrative measures.
4. Abolished the feudal system.
5. Freed peasants from serfdom and manorial dues.
6. Removed guild restrictions.
7. Improved transport and communication systems.
8. Downside: Napoleon took away political freedom, increased taxes, imposed censorship, and forced people into the French army.

The Making of Nationalism in Europe

1. Different areas had different languages.
2. Example: In Hungary, half the population spoke Magyar, while the other half spoke a variety of dialects.

The Aristocracy and the New Middle Class

1. Aristocracy: The land-owning class, spoke French, and connected by marriage.
2. Peasantry: Made up the majority of the population.
3. Middle Class: A new social class that emerged with the growth of towns and commerce, and where ideas of nationality gained popularity.

Que. What did Liberal Nationalism Stand for?

1. Liberalism stood for individual freedom and equality before the law.
2. Called for an end to autocracy and clerical privileges, and a representative government.
3. In the economic sphere, it supported free markets and the abolition of state-imposed restrictions.

A New Conservatism after 1815

1. Believed in preserving established institutions while allowing some changes initiated by Napoleon.

Treaty of Vienna (1815)

1. The Bourbon dynasty was restored in France.
2. States were created on French boundaries to prevent future French expansion.
3. The German confederation was left untouched.

The Age of Revolutions: 1830-1848

1. Bourbon kings were overthrown in France, and a constitutional monarchy was established.
2. Belgium broke away from the United Kingdom of the Netherlands.
3. Greece gained independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1832.

Visualising the Nation

1. Nations were often personified as female figures (Allegory).
2. In France, the female allegory was known as Marianne, while in Germany, it was called Germania.

Impact of Nationalism

1. Nationalism led to the formation of nation-states based on shared cultural, linguistic, and historical identities.
2. It also fueled conflicts among nations, leading to World War I.
3. Nationalism influenced politics, literature, art, and education.