Reform and Repression 1815-40

Question 1

Reform and Repression

Answer 1

Absolute rule restored in German states, 1815
Only 4 states were not dynastic (ruled by family)
Articles of Federal Act
Some rulers ignored
Most northern states allowed ‘estates’, not always elected, usually nobles
South/Central states agreed with the act, elected assemblies which had powers to pass laws

Question 2

Developments in Austria and Prussia

Answer 2

Francis 1 (1804-35) and Ferdinand 1 (1835-49) wanted to keep absolute power
Frederick William 111 (Prussia) showed little interest in liberal reform
Prussia divided economically, religiously, culturally, each state had a president
Provinces were independent, controlled by large landowners, no constitution until 1848

Question 3

Student Movements

Answer 3

Defeat of Napoleon huge influence
After 1815, young middle-upper class Germans joined societies campaigning for a united Germany
1817, Wartburg festival set up, celebration of Martin Luther’s stand against the pope, only 500 students
Martin Luther - 1517, religious leader protested against Catholic Church over practices leading to religious divide, followers of Luther were known as Protestants

Question 4

The Carlsbad Decrees

Answer 4

Metternich exaggerated importance of student movements, 1819 students murdered Kotzebue, secret Russian agent, Metternich took action
Met King of Prussia at Carlsbad, decisions ratified by Diet as Carlsbad Decrees

Question 5

Liberal Reform

Answer 5

Freedom of speech
Freedom of Worship
Freedom of press
Freedom to form political associations, hold political meetings

Question 6

Liberals

Answer 6

Liberals were mostly educated middle class, with their own economic and political interests
No radical changes of structure of society
Supported intellectual argument, peaceful persuasion

Question 7

German Nationalism

Answer 7

Philosopher Johann Herder, 18th C, believed in national identity and unique cultures, encouraging a united Germany
George Hegel - professor, felt man could only achieve full potential by service to state (more impact)

Question 8

Strength of German Unity

Answer 8

Nationalistic view during French rule
Views declined after
Canvas’ painted of German heroic past
‘German style’ buildings
Vormarz years - political excitement, reached few people 1815-48
Many groups set up, talks to revolution, more sovereignty (power to people rather than parliament)

Question 9

Congress of Troppau

Answer 9

Settle international disagree
1820, they discussed revolt
Russia, Austria and Prussia decided to restore gov taken over by force

Question 10

Clemens Von Metternich (1772-1859)

Answer 10

1773 -