Restoration Europe: Political Dynamics After 1815

Restoration Europe: The Post-Napoleonic Era

The Restoration began following the defeat of Napoleon in 1815. This period was defined by a sharp divide between those who supported the return of the Old Regime and those who opposed it.

Supporters of the Restoration

The proponents of the Restoration included:

• Kings, nobility, and clergy: They sought to regain the power and privileged positions held during the Old Regime.
• Intellectual traditionalists: They insisted on the divine origin of power and the legitimacy of kings as the sole rulers. Key figures included Bonald and Haller.

Opponents of the Restoration

The opposition consisted of diverse groups with varying motivations:

• Farmers: They resisted the restoration of feudal rights.
• Merchants and manufacturers: They opposed the return of the Ancien Régime's fiscal policies, which grouped them with peasants as taxpayers.
• Officials: Those who gained status during the revolutionary processes feared losing their positions.
• Liberal intellectuals: They advocated for individual freedoms, with Constant being a prominent figure.
• Nationalist intellectuals: They criticized the artificial division of Europe, with Fichte being a notable voice.

Objectives of the Restoration

The supporters of the Restoration pursued specific goals:

Domestic Policy

• Restore the Old Regime (with concessions in France via the Charter of Louis XVIII, and without limitations in Russia).
• Prevent further revolutions.
• Abolish national sovereignty.

Foreign Policy

• Implement a system of collective security, culminating in the Holy Alliance.
• Establish a new map of Europe, finalized at the Congress of Vienna.

Objectives of the Great Powers

The new order was defended by five major states, each with distinct interests:

• United Kingdom: Sought freedom and safety in shipping lanes and a balance of power in Europe.
• Austria: Aimed to expand its influence in the Balkans.
• Prussia: Strived to become the leading power among German states.
• Russia: Pursued expansion in Central Europe and the Balkans.
• France: Wanted to prevent internal revolution while maintaining international dignity.