Conservatism
Topic: The Rise of Nationalism in Europe · NCERT: Class 10, Ch 1 "The Rise of Nationalism in Europe"
Meaning
Conservatism is a political idea that values tradition. It wants to keep established institutions such as the monarchy, the Church, the social hierarchy, property and the family. After Napoleon's defeat in 1815, conservatism ruled Europe. But conservatives did not want to go back fully to the time before 1789. They saw that some modern changes could make kings stronger: a modern army, an efficient bureaucracy (the system of government officials), a growing economy, and the end of feudalism and serfdom.
Example
The Treaty of Vienna of 1815 was hosted by Metternich, the Austrian Chancellor. It brought back the Bourbon kings in France. It also set up buffer states (neighbouring states meant to block France), such as the kingdom of the Netherlands including Belgium. After this, conservative governments used strict censorship, which is why liberals demanded freedom of the press.
Don't confuse with
- Liberalism: it demanded constitutions, representative government and individual rights. Conservatism defended tradition and the power of monarchs.
Related concepts
- Treaty of Vienna
- Concert of Europe
- Holy Alliance 1815
- Metternich
- Carbonari
- Giuseppe Mazzini
- Young Italy