The Congress of Vienna In this lesson, students will be able to define the following terms: The Congress of Vienna Prince Metternich Balance of Power Nationalism Nationality E. Napp

After the defeat of Napoleon, European ministers and rulers met at the Congress of Vienna to redraw the boundaries of Europe. E. Napp

The great powers Of Europe-Great Britain, Prussia, Russia, and Austria dominated the Congress (1814-1815). They restored many former rulers and borders. E. Napp

A Return to the Past These changes helped to bring Europe back in some measure to the way it had been before the French Revolution. In some places, like Belgium and Poland, this meant ignoring popular feelings. The European “Old Order” was restored. E. Napp

Prince Metternich of Austria was a leader of the Congress of Vienna. E. Napp

Balance of Power Prince Metternich sought to establish a balance of power. Introduced in the 18th century, this term referred to a system in which the chief powers of Europe were roughly equal in military strength, so that no single power like France could dominate the others. E. Napp

To further prevent future French domination or the spread of democratic revolutions in Europe, the four major powers also formed a new alliance. E. Napp

Nationalism Nationalism is the belief that each nationality (ethnic group) is entitled to its own government. The French Revolution ignited the spirit of nationalism in Europe by spreading the view that government should be based on the will of the people. E. Napp

or crushing nationalist feelings. At the same time, the statesmen at the Congress of Vienna were intent on ignoring or crushing nationalist feelings. E. Napp

The thirty years following the Congress of Vienna witnessed a series of unsuccessful revolutions in Italy, Germany, and Poland. E. Napp

However, both Greece and Belgium achieved independence by 1830. E. Napp

French citizens established a constitutional monarchy that same year. E. Napp

In 1848, revolutionary fever gripped Europe. The French overthrew their constitutional monarchy and France became a republic. However, other revolutions were put down. E. Napp

Questions for Reflection: What were the goals of the Congress of Vienna? Why did Prince Metternich believe that a “balance of power” would prevent future problems? Define nationalism and nationality. What happened in 1848? Was the “Old Order” restored? Explain your answer. E. Napp