Glossary
1848 Revolutions
A series of widespread liberal and nationalist uprisings that swept across Europe in 1848, challenging existing monarchical and aristocratic orders.
Example:
Though many of the 1848 Revolutions ultimately failed to achieve their immediate goals, they demonstrated the growing power of nationalist and liberal ideas across the continent.
Balance of Power
The distribution of power among European nations, maintained through military, diplomatic, and economic influence, aimed at preventing any single nation from dominating the continent.
Example:
After the Napoleonic Wars, European powers sought to establish a balance of power to prevent another dominant empire from emerging and destabilizing the continent.
Berlin Conference
A conference held in Berlin from 1884-1885 where European powers regulated European colonization and trade in Africa, formalizing the 'Scramble for Africa.'
Example:
The Berlin Conference drew arbitrary borders across Africa, often ignoring existing ethnic and linguistic divisions, which had long-lasting consequences for the continent.
Concert of Europe
A system of alliances and diplomacy created after the Napoleonic Wars to maintain peace and stability in Europe through collective security and cooperation.
Example:
The Concert of Europe attempted to resolve international disputes through conferences rather than warfare, though it eventually failed due to rising nationalism and economic rivalries.
Count Camillo di Cavour
A leading figure in the movement toward Italian unification, serving as the first Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Italy.
Example:
Count Camillo di Cavour skillfully used diplomacy and alliances with France to expand Piedmont-Sardinia's influence and unite northern Italy.
Imperialism
A policy of extending a country's power and influence through colonization, use of military force, or other means, often driven by economic and strategic motives.
Example:
European imperialism in Asia and Africa led to the exploitation of vast resources and the imposition of foreign rule, reshaping global power dynamics.
Materialistic worldview
A perspective that emphasizes the acquisition of material goods and wealth as a primary indicator of power, status, or success.
Example:
The burgeoning middle class in 19th-century Europe often adopted a materialistic worldview, showcasing their prosperity through elaborate homes and possessions.
Nationalism
A strong identification with one's own nation and support for its interests, especially to the exclusion or detriment of the interests of other nations.
Example:
The desire for self-determination among ethnic groups fueled the rise of nationalism across Europe, leading to both unification movements and intense rivalries.
Otto von Bismarck
The conservative Prussian statesman who engineered the unification of Germany in 1871 and served as its first chancellor.
Example:
Otto von Bismarck's "Blood and Iron" speech famously articulated his belief that military strength, not speeches, would achieve German unification.
Realpolitik
A political philosophy focused on practical considerations and material factors rather than on ideology, ethics, or moralistic notions.
Example:
Otto von Bismarck's use of strategic wars and alliances to achieve German unification is a prime example of Realpolitik, prioritizing national interest above all else.
Scramble for Africa
The rapid colonization of Africa by European powers during the late 19th century, driven by economic gain, raw materials, and strategic advantages.
Example:
The Berlin Conference formalized the division of the continent during the Scramble for Africa, often disregarding existing African political and ethnic boundaries.
Second Industrial Revolution
A phase of rapid industrialization from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, characterized by advancements in steel, electricity, chemicals, and internal combustion engines.
Example:
The invention of the light bulb and widespread electrification during the Second Industrial Revolution transformed urban life and factory production.
Unification of Germany
The process by which various independent German states were unified into a single nation-state, the German Empire, in 1871, primarily under Prussian leadership.
Example:
The Unification of Germany dramatically altered the European power structure, creating a formidable new state in the heart of the continent.
Unification of Italy
The political and social movement that consolidated different states of the Italian peninsula into a single state, the Kingdom of Italy, in 1861.
Example:
The Unification of Italy saw figures like Giuseppe Garibaldi lead popular movements alongside Count Camillo di Cavour's diplomatic and military strategies.