The Congress of Vienna Chapter 7 Section 5

The Congress of Vienna Chapter 7, Section 5

The Congress of Vienna After exiling Napoleon, European leaders were looking to establish long-lasting peace and stability on the continent. A series of meetings in Vienna, known as the Congress of Vienna, were called to set up policies to achieve this goal. The goal of the new European order: collective security and stability Originally scheduled to meet four weeks. Actually met for eight months. Meetings were held during the winter of 1814 -1814.

Metternich’s Plan for Europe Most decisions were made in secret among representatives of the five “great powers” – Russia, Prussia, Austria, Great Britain, and France. The most influential of these representatives: Prince Klemens von Metternich, Austrian foreign minister Metternich distrusted the democratic ideals of the French Revolution. Viewed Napoleon’s behavior as the outcome of experiments with democracy. Metternich’s goal: “The first and greatest concern for the immense majority of every nation is the stability of laws – never their change. ”

Metternich’s Plan for Europe {continued} The Containment of France – Prevent French aggression by surrounding France with strong countries. • Kingdom of the Netherlands formed • Switzerland made independent • Austria dominates new German Confederation of 39 German states • Kingdom of Sardinia is strengthened by adding Genoa

Metternich’s Plan for Europe {continued} Balance of Power – No one country can be a threat to another country. • European powers weaken France but leave it mostly intact • France remains a major but diminished European power.

Metternich’s Plan for Europe {continued} Legitimacy – Restoration of traditional European ruling order. • Legitimacy—monarchs deposed by Napoleon are returned to thrones • Ruling families of France, Spain, and several states in Italy and Central Europe regain their thrones. • Leaders hope to restore order through these changes • Congress of Vienna succeeds in getting all European governments together • Fair deals are worked out so that the meeting does not lead to more war • European nations agree to preserve peace, which lasts almost 40 years.

Political Changes Beyond Vienna Conservative Europe • Holy Alliance—Russia, Prussia, Austria pledge to fight revolution • Concert of Europe—European nations pledge to help fight revolutions • Conservative governments rule across Europe, but new ideas have impact Revolutions in Latin America • Napoleon’s replacing king of Spain set off rebellions in Spanish America • Many former colonies of Spain and Portugal gain independence Long-Term Legacy • Britain, Prussia gain power • Spreading of nationalism leads to revolutions