6.5 - The Concert of Europe and European Conservatism

The Rise of Conservative Ideology in Europe

Introduction:

• The rise of conservative ideology in Europe after 1815 was a direct reaction to the events of the French Revolution and the radical changes that followed.

Background:

• The French Revolution saw the people demand liberal reforms and ultimately take over the government when their demands were not met. This period led to significant gains in rights for the people and the end of monarchical tyranny.

• However, the Reign of Terror during the radical phase of the Revolution led to widespread violence, including the execution of the king, and created fear among the surrounding nations.

• Napoleon's expansionist ambitions spread the revolutionary ideals across Europe, but his defeat led to a strong conservative backlash.

Conservative Ideology:

• Conservatism in 19th century Europe was a political belief that stability in government is achieved by upholding traditional norms and cultural institutions.

• Conservatives believed that humans are inherently flawed and untrustworthy, and therefore, power should not be placed in the hands of the masses. Instead, society should be built on established institutions like monarchy, aristocracy, and religion.

Key Conservative Figures:

• Edmund Burke (England): Argued that authority and hierarchy were part of the natural order, and society should be governed by a small group of elite leaders.

• Joseph de Maistre (France): Initially supported the Revolution but became horrified by its violence and secularism. He advocated for a return to monarchy, rooted in religious and moral principles.

The Congress of Vienna and the Concert of Europe:

• After Napoleon’s defeat, conservative leaders from Great Britain, Austria, Prussia, and Russia met at the Congress of Vienna to restore Europe to its traditional structures.

• This period, known as the Concert of Europe or the Congress System, was marked by relative peace and stability, driven by the conservative principles established by Austrian Foreign Minister Clemens von Metternich.

• Metternich's goals included:

  • Restoring the balance of power by reinstalling legitimate rulers on European thrones.

  • Upholding the rights and prerogatives of the landed aristocracy.

  • Reinforcing organized religion as a stabilizing force in society.

Repression of Liberal and Nationalist Movements:

• The conservative reaction included the suppression of liberal and nationalist movements across Europe:

  • Carlsbad Decrees (1819) in Austria: These decrees aimed to suppress liberal and nationalist movements in the German states by outlawing nationalist organizations, dissolving radical student groups, and removing liberal professors from their posts.

  • Russia: Under the conservative rule of the Tsars, who claimed divine right, the state employed secret police to suppress dissent and maintain the existing order.