Unit 7: Nationalism & Imperialism

The Crimean War ushered in a new stage of foreign policy and diplomacy in Europe, even as it demonstrated the weakness of the Ottoman Empire. Conservative leaders like Napoleon III, Cavour, and Bismarck used nationalistic ideals to strengthen and unify their nations, while in Russia autocrats began a program of economic and social reform (Key Concepts 3.4.II, 3.4.III). The unification of Italy and Germany changed the balance of power, while the creation of the dual monarchy in Austria-Hungary showed the power of ethnic nationalism (Key Concept 3.4.III). Governments attempted to control markets in a variety of ways and also attempted to mitigate the problems of industrial cities (Key Concepts 3.3.III, 3.5.I).Marxist Socialism evolved from utopian ideals to Marx's more "scientific" views about the oppression of the proletariat by the bourgeoisie, while even more radical syndicalist and anarchists advocated violence to achieve their goals (Key Concepts 3.3.I, 3.6.II). A more realistic and materialistic worldview began to take hold as new philosophies such as positivism arose. Realist and materialist themes influenced writers and artists who attempted to depict the struggles of ordinary people (Key Concept 3.6.II). 

Source: Western Civilization, Spielvogel, pg. 653

Developments in the sciences, such as Einstein's theory of relativity, undermined the Newtonian view of the universe. Charles Darwin's theory of evolution was used to justify Social Darwinists theories of inequality (Key Concept 3.6.III). Freudian psychology explained human nature in new ways, emphasizing the importance of the subconscious mind. The rise of science and the questioning of previous religious and secular values led to the growth of new philosophies. These new ideas influenced modern literature and music, while Impressionists broke many of the rules governing the art world (Key Concepts 3.6.II, 3.6.III). 

As men gained the right to vote in the West, women fought for suffrage and other rights (Key Concept 3.3.III). In Russia, industrialization, lack of rights, and economic hardship caused rebellion (Key Concept 3.2.V). Increased nationalists feelings within the Jewish community, called Zionism, became important, but anti-Semitism and other forms of racism became more pervasive as well (Key Concept 3.3.I). 

The nations of western Europe, spurred by economic, political, and cultural motives, embarked on imperialist programs in Africa and Asia. The rise of militarism with new, more industrialized armies, competition among rival imperialist states, and the development of a new system of alliances heightened international tensions (Key Concepts 3.5.I, 3.5.II, 3.5.III). 

Source: Western Civilization, Spielvogel, pg. 719

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