DTW GED PREP

The 19th century was a period of significant political upheaval and change, driven by the forces of liberalism, nationalism, and growing demands for political reform. Here’s a summary of key developments:

• 1830 and 1848 European Revolutions: These revolutions were driven by liberal demands for constitutional governments and national independence. In many countries, including France, the forces of liberalism were successful, though conservative monarchies remained in power in several regions by the end of the century. These uprisings were a response to both the conservative governments that had reasserted control after the Napoleonic Wars and the broader dissatisfaction with authoritarian rule.
• Nationalism in the Austro-Hungarian Empire: The Austro-Hungarian Empire, a multi-ethnic empire with groups such as Germans, Hungarians, Czechs, Croats, and Italians, faced significant challenges from nationalism. Nationalist movements, driven by pride in cultural identity and a desire for independence, grew stronger over the 19th century. These movements were a major factor in the eventual unification of Italy and Germany, both of which became unified nation-states in 1861 and 1871, respectively. Meanwhile, nationalist movements within the empire contributed to its instability and eventual collapse.
• Unification of Italy and Germany: Nationalism played a key role in the unification of Italy and Germany. In Italy, figures like Giuseppe Garibaldi and Count Cavour helped lead the country to unification in 1861, bringing together various independent states and regions under one government. In Germany, Otto von Bismarck, the Prussian chancellor, used diplomacy and war to unite the German-speaking states into a single German Empire in 1871, following the defeat of France in the Franco-Prussian War.
• Nationalism in Ireland: In Ireland, nationalism led to a growing demand for independence from British rule. While the Irish did not achieve full independence during the 19th century, the Irish nationalist movement led to some reforms in British policy, including the eventual granting of Home Rule to Ireland in the early 20th century.
• Decline of the Ottoman Empire: Nationalism also contributed to the decline of the Ottoman Empire, as many of its diverse ethnic groups began to seek independence. The Empire lost significant territory over the 19th century, and by the time of World War I, it had virtually collapsed. Following the war, the Ottoman Empire was formally dismantled, and the Republic of Turkey was established in 1923 under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who created a secular, modernized state.
• Russian Revolution of 1917: In Russia, while the 1905 Revolution did not succeed in overthrowing the tsar, it set the stage for the more successful revolution of 1917. The 1917 Russian Revolution, fueled by discontent with autocratic rule and economic hardship, led to the fall of the Romanov dynasty and the rise of the Bolsheviks, who established a communist government under Lenin.

These events reflect the broader themes of nationalism and liberalism that defined much of 19th-century Europe, with nationalist movements challenging empires and monarchies, and the rise of constitutional governments providing inspiration for future revolutions.

POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS IN 19TH-CENTURY EUROPE

Directions: Select the best answer for each of the following questions.

1. Which statement is supported by the text?
   A. Ireland gained independence from Great Britain in 1871.
   B. The revolutions of 1830 led to the unification of Italy.
   C. Nationalism caused Austria-Hungary to divide, while it helped unify Italy and Germany.
   D. The Czechs and Croats were the most progressive groups in Austria-Hungary.
2. What conclusion can be drawn about the Ottoman Empire?
   A. In the late 19th century, the Ottomans formed close ties with the French.
   B. The armies of Europe could not match the strength of the Ottoman forces.
   C. The people of Turkey still refer to themselves as Ottomans.
   D. Throughout the 19th century, the Ottoman Empire…

1. Which statement is supported by the text?
C. Nationalism caused Austria-Hungary to divide, while it helped unify Italy and Germany. ✅
Explanation: Nationalism played dual roles in 19th-century Europe—it fueled unification efforts in Italy and Germany while also causing internal divisions in multi-ethnic empires like Austria-Hungary.

2. What conclusion can be drawn about the Ottoman Empire?
D. Throughout the 19th century, the Ottoman Empire gradually lost territory and influence. ✅
Explanation: The Ottoman Empire, often referred to as the “sick man of Europe,” declined steadily throughout the 1800s due to internal strife, nationalist uprisings, and military defeats. It lost significant territories in the Balkans and the Middle East, and European powers increasingly interfered in its affairs.