Ideology of 19th Century Europe

There were three major political ideologies in the 19th century; each of them influenced social and political actions across the world.

First up is Nationalism, the belief that people are united by a common language, culture and history. This belief brought the people of a country together. They were united under a common goal. In the case of Europe, after Napoleon lost power, the European countries wanted to kick foreign powers out and take back their country. The following Vine shows Italy. They were united by their language when they say "siamo uniti." Afterwards, the Italians are seen chasing a foreign ruler out of Italy together and taking their country back.



Nationalism wasn't the only prominent ideology during the 19th century. The two other most common ones were liberalism and conservatism. Liberalism was based off of support for reform and innovation. In 19th century Europe, liberalists wanted to change the social system from a monarchy to a meritocracy. This way the people would have more power and say in the community and government. John Stuart Mill argued for freedom of thought and democracy. He also warned against the tyranny of a corrupt majority. A major political change made by liberalists was the rise of popularity in the constitutional monarchy. The power of the monarch was limited by a set of laws and guidelines that the people agreed upon.

Finally, the conservatives played a part in political and social changes during 19th century Europe. Conservatives liked tradition because it was safe. They were against any type of reform, political or social. Politically, they supported absolute monarchy and the church. They believed reforms led to chaos. Edmund Burke predicted the bloodshed and chaos that came from any kind of revolution or reforms. Socially, the conservatives preferred aristocracy over meritocracy.