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The Congress of Vienna
The Congress of Vienna formed in an effort to help rebuild Europe. It tried to suppress revolts, preserve rulers power, set lasting peace, and balance power. It ultimately set peace for 38 years. -
Europe Becomes Ripe for Revolution
1846 marked the beginning of Europe's last major food crisis. At this time, a recession hit the European people, causing many of them to lose their jobs and prices of goods to go up. France and many other European superpowers faced internal division caused by drastic political views. These events came together to cause the European Revolutions of 1848. -
Rebellion in the German States
Throughout 1848, people in the German states were divided over liberal reforms and national unity. However, the German leaders could not decide whether to be a republic or monarchy. When the king of Germany, Fredrick William IV, was offered the crown, he refused it because it came from the people, which he considered "the gutter." -
The Communist Manifesto is Published
After the publication of the Communist Manifesto by Karl Marx in 1848, many people around the world were stirred into revolution. The ideas in the Communist Manifesto brought awareness to the oppressed people at the time and influenced revolts around Europe. It influenced radical people at the time and lit the flame for revolution. -
Violence Erupts in France During the February Days
The government began to take steps to silence critics and prevent public meetings. Soon, barricades and angry citizens filled the streets. The Second Republic formed during this time. -
The June Days in France
The government shut down the National Workshops set up by Louis Blanc. The furious workers took to the streets in protest. This time, the government responded violently and over 1,500 people were killed. -
Louis Napoleon Elected in France
Louis Napoleon, the nephew of Napoleon Bonaparte, was elected leader of France. He presented himself as a man of social issues like poverty, which won him the liberals votes. Conservatives liked him because of the prestige that went along with his powerful last name. Around this time, the National Assembly issued a constitution for the Second Republic. -
Napoleon III Establishes the Second Empire
Louis Napoleon proclaimed himself emperor in 1852. He had lots of support because people thought monarchies were more stable than republics and they could relive the glory days of Napoleon Bonaparte. The Second Empire was formed with a 90% vote and the Second Republic was dissolved. -
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American Civil War
The American Civil War begins and lasts for 4 years. It came as a response to disputes among the northern and southern parts of the United States. This war shows that there were revolutions going on all around the world, which were fueled by revolutions in Europe at this time. -
German Empire Proclaimed
The German Empire was formed in 1871 and consisted of 39 states. Before this, there were more than 300 German States. This event marks the eventual unification of Germany after years of revolution and trying to fix problems.
