The Restoration, Liberalism, and the Industrial Revolution
The Restoration
The Return of Absolutism
Absolutism: An ideology that advocated for absolute monarchy. Restoration: The return of the monarchs of the Old Regime, acting as if the revolution had never existed.
Congress of Vienna
A meeting held after the defeat of Napoleon to establish a new territorial distribution of powers, ensure lasting peace, and prevent new revolutions.
The Holy Alliance
Comprised of Russia, Prussia, and Austria, its members promised to take action where necessary to defend despotic power.
A New Revolutionary Wave (1820-1848)
Liberalism and Nationalism
- Liberalism: Divided into Doctrinaire (Moderate) or Progressive (Democratic). It rejected absolutism and sought to recover the rights and freedoms recognized by the French Revolution.
- Nationalism: Originated from Napoleonic expansion, which exacerbated feelings of belonging to a nation. We can differentiate between German and French nationalism.
Factors of the First Industrial Revolution
The Demographic Revolution
A massive change endured by humanity since the 18th century where the population began to grow up to 20 times faster. Progress in science, agriculture, and medicine made this growth possible:
- High birth rates
- Decreased mortality: Due to food availability, increased productivity, and hygienic, sanitary, and medical improvements.
The demographic revolution was a key factor in Europe's economic progress, as more people required increased consumption.
Agricultural Expansion of the 18th Century
Agricultural techniques improved with the introduction of iron plows and better irrigation systems. By the 19th century, new machines, chemical fertilizers, and stabling were introduced. These changes in agricultural structures led to a rural exodus, with many farmers migrating to cities.
First Industrial Revolution (1780-1860)
Industrialization began in Britain in the last third of the 18th century and later spread to Europe.
Manufacturing and Machining
Workshops were replaced by factories. A new energy source emerged: steam generated by burning coal. James Watt invented the first steam engine.
Britain as the First Industrial Center
- Britain had sufficient manpower, a wide market for products, and numerous overseas colonies.
- A new liberal mindset existed, which formed the basis of laws passed by Parliament.
Transportation Revolution
Rail: The steam locomotive was invented by Richard Trevithick and improved by George Stephenson.