consequences of the french revolution essay

The French Revolutions: Causes and Impacts Essay

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Introduction

Origin and experience of the 1789 revolution, origin and experience of the 1848 revolution, similarities.

Bibliography

France has had many major revolutions that changed the country’s face, politically, socially and economically. By the 1700s, it had a full strength monarch system of government in which the king held absolute power also known as an absolute monarchy, most typified by Louis XIV.

The nobles that were allowed to make legislations were corrupt and often enriched themselves leaving the poor or the so-called third estates to lavish in poverty. This paper will attempt to compare and contrast the two revolutions, which occurred in 1789 and 1848, focusing on their causes as well as the impacts associated with their occurrences.

The 1789 revolution took place at a time when the French monarchy had absolute power, governing the whole country and implementing high tax due to massive debt caused by wars that King Louis XVI had participated in including the American war of independence. Its causes were mainly the hard social, economic and political cataclysm that they had and were worsening each day. The country was heading into bankruptcy, making life much more difficult; people died daily and were buried in pauper graves, privileges were given to the nobles and the church. This led to a surge in protests involving mainly of the public and their sympathizers in various French cities like Paris, Lyon, Marseille, among others.

The monarch’s symbol of power was the Bastille jail in Paris that had been in place for the past 400 years and its attack signified the beginning of a republican government. This saw execution of King Louis amid protest from other European countries that supported the rule of monarchy, and duped France into wars with other states like Britain, which had a constitutional monarchy, Spain and the Netherlands as well as Belgium.

The impacts of this ‘terror’ were worsened by the soaring prices with the devaluation of French currency due to unprecedented war that was in existence. This prompted price control in almost all foodstuffs as the Jacobins seized power in a reign of terror. The national assembly that was constituted mainly by the third estate constituted a committee of public safety, whose days were numbered with the escalating famine and shortages that faced the country. Besides, workable laws were still in the process of making as they fought to install a feasible constitution. Tax levied by the Catholic Church, which owned the largest land in the country added more injury to already soaring economic problems.

The effects were realized but at a price since even though rights of citizens were instilled, ravaging famine, wars and terror consumed the population. This revolution took new shift as power changed hands from monarchy, through to the Robespierre, Jacobins, in 1794 then to Directory through to 1799 when Napoleon took over under Consulate. Secularism became rampant; innovations, wars, and the restoration of monarchy are some of the results that surfaced.

For instance, After the King’s execution, Revolutionary tribunal and public safety committee were instituted; this saw a reign of terror, with ruling faction brutally killing potential enemies irrespective of their age, sex or condition. Paris alone recorded about 1400 deaths in the last six weeks to 27 July 1794, when it was replaced by Directory in 1975. This brought together 500 representatives, in a bicameral legislature consisting of two chambers, which lasted about 4 years to 1799 when it was replaced by Consulate.

This revolution took place in Europe at a time when reforms were the main activity. This ended the reinstated monarchy that had replaced the earlier revolution. A second republic was instituted and later saw the election of Louis Napoleon as its president although he went on to establish an empire that lasted another 23 years. The Orleans monarch had been put in place following a protest that saw the July monarch, Charles abdicate his throne and flee to England in 1830. This new monarch stood among three opposing factions, the socialists, legitimists, and the republicans. With Louis Philippe at the helm of Orleans’s rule, mainly supported by the elites, favors were given to the privileged set; this led to disenfranchisement of the working classes as well as most of the middle class.

Another problem that caused this revolution was the fact that only landowners were allowed to vote, separating the poor from the rich. The leader never cared for the needs of his subjects as some people were not permitted in the political arena. He also opposed the formation of a parliamentary system of government. Furthermore, the country was facing another economic crisis, and depression of the economy due to poor harvest. Poor transport system affected aid efforts during the depression and the crushing of those who rebelled.

It started with banquets as protests were outlawed, resulting in protests and barricades once Philippe outlawed banquets forcing him to abdicate and flee to England as well. Provisional government was formed, in what was called a second republic. Unemployment relief was incorporated in government policies and universal suffrage enacted, which added 9 million more voters. Workshops were organized which ensured the ‘right to work’ for every French citizen. Other impacts included reduced trading and luxury as the wealthy fled and this meant servicing credits was a problem. Conservatism increased in the new government with struggles emerging between the classes. Eventually, politics tilted to the right and this revolution failed once again, ushering in the second empire.

The two revolutions had very many similarities in their origins; the first was started out of social and political problems like, unemployment, which was widely prevalent. Similarly, the second was also aimed at establishing the right to work. In both cases, forced protests were used to ensure that revolutions took place and they all failed; the first, giving way to emperor Napoleon Bonaparte and the second ushering emperor napoleon III.

In both cases, corruption was rampant as could be seen in the nobles of the first monarchy and the elite who were favored in the second monarch. Financial crisis and expected economic depression was significant in causing the two revolutions. The impacts were also similar in some ways as there were no stable governments during the two revolutions.

The first revolution was more radical as it caused terror and war as compared to the second, which was less violent; this is evident in the assault on Bastille. The causes of the first revolution were more founded on the basic rights of the people as compared to the second. The first revolution occurred when there was limited freedom to the public with their rights restricted to one vote by the third estate, while in the second revolution, there were provisional governments that had liberated some of the restrictions like the universal suffrage and characterized by struggles between classes.

The first revolution was the initiation of the revolutions that followed and was characterized with heavy loss of lives during the reign of terror, while the second was characterized by more political and social systems that enforced changes.

The two revolutions failed to fulfill all their goals although they made several crucial changes such as universal suffrages, which added 9 million new voters. Many thoughts have considered the revolutions to make a huge impact on British Philosophical, intellectual and political life, having a major impact on the Western history. Some of the sympathizers of the revolution like Thomas Paine among other English radicals shared their sentiment at first, as they believed it was a sign of liberty, fraternity and Equality.

However, when it turned into exterminations and terror, it gave second thoughts to the earlier supporters. In the end, after the second revolution’s failure, a second state was put in office, led by Napoleon III; he purged the republicans, thereby dissolving the National Assembly, and then established a second empire, restoring the old order. It is imperative to note that the revolutions made great significance in the developments of Europe as a whole.

Betts F. R., 2000. Europe In Retrospect: A Brief History of the Past two hundred years. Britannia,LLC .

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Emmet K.1989. A Cultural History of the French Revolution. New Haven: Yale University Press . Print.

Rappot M. 2009. 1848: Year of Revolution . Basic Books . Web.

Smitha E. F., 2002. The French Revolution. Macrohistory and World Report. Web.

Walker L.H. 2001. Sweet and Consoling Virtue: The Memoirs of Madame Roland. Eighteenth-Century Studies, French Revolutionary Culture .

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11 Effects of the French Revolution

The French Revolution, spanning from 1789 to 1799, was a seismic upheaval that reshaped the course of history. Emerging from deep-seated social, economic, and political discontent, it marked the overthrow of absolute monarchy and the rise of democratic ideals.

The revolution’s effects transcended geographical boundaries, fueling a surge of nationalism and inspiring global movements for change. As the monarchy crumbled, the birth of the First French Republic heralded a new era, where power was derived from the people rather than inherited privilege.

However, the revolution was not without its challenges; the radical Reign of Terror demonstrated the delicate balance between pursuing revolutionary ideals and maintaining stability.

The social fabric was rewoven, abolishing feudal privileges and promoting social equality, though disparities lingered.

Through its impact on governance, culture, and the global struggle for liberty, the French Revolution became an enduring emblem of human aspiration for freedom and justice.

French Revolution Effects and Impacts

1. overthrow of monarchy.

The French Revolution marked a seismic shift from an absolute monarchy to a republic. The revolutionaries aimed to remove the entrenched power of the monarchy and its associated privileges.

Also Read: Facts About the French Revolution

The execution of King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette in 1793 symbolized the rejection of monarchical rule and heralded a new era in French governance.

The establishment of the First French Republic was a pivotal moment, replacing the monarchy with a system where power was theoretically held by the people and represented by elected officials.

2. Rise of Nationalism

The revolution fueled a strong sense of national identity among the French people. The revolutionary ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity encouraged unity and patriotism.

Also Read: French Revolution Causes

Revolutionary symbols such as the tricolor flag and the “Marseillaise” anthem became potent symbols of the nation’s spirit and resistance.

The emphasis on shared values and the rejection of monarchic hierarchy contributed to a collective consciousness that laid the foundation for modern French identity.

3. Spread of Revolutionary Ideas

The principles of the French Revolution, particularly those of democracy and human rights, resonated beyond France’s borders. Revolutionary ideals inspired movements for change in other countries.

The Revolution sparked political upheavals in neighboring countries and influenced the emergence of revolutionary movements, such as in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Italy.

Overseas colonies and regions with colonial rule also drew inspiration from the revolutionary rhetoric to seek independence and challenge imperial control.

4. Reign of Terror

The Reign of Terror (1793-1794) was a period of extreme radicalization within the Revolution. The Committee of Public Safety, led by Maximilien Robespierre, pursued a policy of suppressing perceived threats to the Republic.

Also Read: French Revolution Leaders

Mass executions, including that of prominent figures like Robespierre himself, characterized this phase. The terror was fueled by fears of counter-revolution, foreign invasion, and internal dissent.

While the Reign of Terror effectively quashed opposition, it also left a legacy of fear, distrust, and aversion to extreme ideologies.

5. Social and Class Changes

The Revolution aimed to address social inequalities that had long plagued French society. Feudal privileges, which had given the nobility special rights and exemptions, were abolished.

The introduction of new laws promoted social mobility and a more egalitarian society, challenging the rigid class structure that had existed for centuries.

However, these changes were not uniform. While some commoners experienced improved status, others remained impoverished, and the socio-economic disparities persisted in various ways.

6. Secularization and Church Reforms

The Revolution aimed to reduce the influence of the Catholic Church on state affairs and society. The Church had long held significant power and wealth in France.

The Civil Constitution of the Clergy (1790) placed the French Church under state control, leading to tensions with the Pope and divisions among clergy and laity.

Church lands were confiscated and sold, resulting in a significant reduction in the Church’s economic power and influence. Many religious practices were secularized, and the Church’s role in education and social services was curtailed.

7. Napoleon Bonaparte’s Rise to Power

The Revolution’s aftermath was marked by political instability, which allowed Napoleon Bonaparte, a talented military general, to seize power through a coup in 1799 (the 18 Brumaire coup).

Napoleon’s rule as First Consul and later as Emperor (Napoleon I) brought both military conquest and substantial reforms. He codified laws in the Napoleonic Code, centralized administration, and modernized institutions.

His ambitions also led to European wars and conquests, ultimately resulting in the Napoleonic Wars, which reshaped the map of Europe.

8. Legal Reforms

The Revolution aimed to establish a legal system based on principles of equality and individual rights. The Napoleonic Code (Civil Code) was a comprehensive legal framework introduced by Napoleon in 1804.

The code standardized laws across France, emphasizing equality before the law, protection of property rights, and promotion of personal freedoms.

Although it modernized legal concepts, the Napoleonic Code was criticized for maintaining some aspects of inequality, particularly in matters of gender and family law.

9. Global Impact

The revolutionary ideals and principles of the French Revolution inspired movements for independence and social change worldwide.

Colonized nations saw the Revolution as a beacon of hope and began seeking autonomy and self-determination, often challenging imperial powers.

The concept of human rights gained prominence on a global scale, as oppressed groups sought to apply the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity to their own struggles.

10. Cultural Transformation

The revolutionary period fostered a dynamic cultural atmosphere that reflected the changing social and political landscape.

Art, literature, and music became powerful tools for expressing revolutionary ideals. Artists and writers depicted heroic images of the Revolution, while political satire and pamphlets circulated widely.

The Enlightenment’s emphasis on reason and individual rights continued to influence creative works, fostering a new intellectual climate that extended beyond the Revolution’s immediate aftermath.

11. Legacy of Human Rights

One of the enduring legacies of the French Revolution is its significant contribution to the advancement of human rights on a global scale.

The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, adopted in August 1789, proclaimed fundamental rights and principles that were considered universal and inalienable.

The declaration emphasized the equality of citizens before the law, the right to liberty, property, security, and resistance to oppression. It also asserted the right to freedom of thought, expression, and religion.

These concepts became cornerstones of modern human rights discourse and laid the groundwork for subsequent declarations and international agreements, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted by the United Nations in 1948.

The Declaration’s ideals have continued to inspire movements advocating for civil liberties, social justice, and political freedom in various parts of the world.

The legacy of human rights from the French Revolution underscores the lasting impact of its progressive ideals and serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to secure and protect fundamental rights for all individuals.

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French Revolution 1789

France on the eve of the revolution, french revolution causes, french revolution outbreak, major events after the french revolution, french revolution impacts.

Prelims: Nil

Mains: History of the World will include events from the 18th century, such as Industrial Revolution, world wars, Redrawal of National Boundaries, Colonization, Decolonization, political philosophies like Communism, Capitalism, Socialism etc. their forms and effect on society.

The French Revolution, spanning from 1789 to 1799 , was a revolutionary movement that significantly impacted France and the world. Fueled by widespread discontent among the impoverished masses and the bourgeoisie over the gross inequalities and absolute power wielded by the monarchy, nobility, and clergy , this revolution marked a seismic shift in sociopolitical paradigms. The revolution witnessed the collapse of the monarchy , radical changes in the political landscape, and the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte . Its impact extended beyond France’s frontiers, inspiring nationalist movements worldwide. The French Revolution epitomised the core values of liberty, equality, and fraternity for all individuals.

France was marked by deep-rooted social inequalities among the three estates , economic hardships , and political unrest , laying the groundwork for the transformative events that unfolded during the French Revolution.

• French society : Eighteenth-century French society was divided into three estates.
• First Estate : The clergy , which included bishops, priests, and other religious officials, enjoyed significant privileges and were exempt from taxation.
• Second Estate : The nobility , comprising the aristocrats and members of the royal family , held vast lands and feudal rights over the peasantry. They too were exempted from paying taxes.
• Third Estate: This estate encompassed the vast majority of the population, including the bourgeoisie (merchants and professionals), urban workers, and peasants. They bore the brunt of the tax burden imposed by the monarchy, fueling resentment towards the privileged classes.
• This rigid social stratification, known as the " Old Regime ," perpetuated inequalities and contributed to the mounting discontent that ultimately sparked the French Revolution.
• French polity: France was an absolute monarchy, with King Louis XVI holding supreme power. The monarchy was considered divinely ordained, and the king ruled through a vast bureaucracy.
• French economy : The French economy was primarily agricultural , with a significant portion of the population engaged in farming.

Several factors contributed to the causes of the French Revolution:

• Economic inequality: Most rural peasants lived in extreme poverty, struggling to make ends meet while shouldering heavy tax burdens. The clergy and nobility, meanwhile, were exempt from taxes and granted privileges.
• Financial crisis: Years of extravagant spending by the monarchy, particularly King Louis XVI and the royal court, drained the state coffers and left the government heavily indebted .
• They were burdened with heavy taxes and lacked social mobility, while the nobility and clergy enjoyed numerous privileges and monopolies.
• Urban poor's resentment: The urban poor, facing unemployment, rising prices, and inadequate social welfare, grew increasingly resentful of the ruling regime and in resentment, they resorted to riots.
• Enlightenment ideas: Enlightenment philosophies, which emphasised individual liberty, reason, and equality, had a significant influence on the intellectual climate in France. Thinkers such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and Montesquieu promoted ideas of individual liberty, reason, and equality, inspiring a new wave of progressive thought .
• Voltaire criticised religious intolerance and championed freedom of speech and reason.
• Rousseau expanded upon these ideas by proposing a form of government based on a social contract between people and their representatives.
• This model of government was put into practice in the United States following the colonies' declaration of independence from Britain.
• The French intellectuals found great inspiration in the American Constitution and its protection of individual rights.
• French leaders like Lafayate participated in the American Revolution, and they became the forebears of the revolution in France on their return.
• Queen Marie Antoinette: Her extravagant lifestyleand perceived indifference to the struggles of the French people aggravated public resentment. She was originally from Austria, which made her a foreign queenin the eyes of the French people. This fueled negative sentiments towards her and the monarchy.

The Outbreak of the Revolution was caused by the particular actions of Louis XVI. They can be understood as below.

• Louis XVI's need to increase taxes: XVI faced financial difficulties due to France's involvement in costly wars, such as the American Revolutionary War, which strained the royal treasury.
• The existing tax system was outdated and inefficient, failing to generate sufficient revenue to meet the growing expenses of the monarchy.
• Calling the Estates General: Louis XVI, as the monarch, did not possess the authority to unilaterally impose taxes. He had to convene a meeting of the Estates General, an assembly representing the three estates.
• The Estates General had not been called for over two centuries, and Louis XVI took the initiative to summon the assembly on 5 May 1789 at Versailles.
• Composition of the Estates General: The first and second estates sent 300 representatives each, while the third estate had 600 representatives, mainly comprising prosperous and educated individuals.
• Peasants, artisans, and women were excluded from the assembly.
• This demand aligned with democratic principles advocated by philosophers like Jean-Jacques Rousseau and his book "The Social Contract."

The French Revolution witnessed a series of major events that transformed France and had far-reaching consequences, including the formation of state constitutions , political party development, the rise of Napoleon , and the spread of revolutionary ideals across the nation.

Revolutionary Wars

Despite signing the Constitution, Louis XVI engaged in secret negotiations with the King of Prussia. The rulers of neighbouring countries were concerned about the developments in France and made plans to send troops to suppress the events taking place since 1789.

• Declaration of War: In April 1792, the National Assembly voted to declare war against Prussia and Austria.
• Declaration of Volunteers: Thousands of provincial volunteers enlisted in the army, viewing it as a popular war against European monarchies and aristocracies.
• Men were away fighting, leaving women to shoulder the responsibilities of earning a living and caring for their families.
• Many people believed that the revolution needed to go further, as the Constitution of 1791 granted political rights only to the wealthier sections of society.

Political Clubs

The first anniversary of the fall of the Bastille marked a moment of liberation and exaltation. There was a general feeling of unity and solidarity among the participants. It was seen as a significant step towards a more inclusive society.

• Discontent: However, this sense of unity did not last long. The common people continued to suffer, and dissatisfaction grew among them.
• Political clubs:  Dissatisfied people started forming political clubs to discuss the problems they faced.
• A majority of the members of the Jacobin club wore long striped trousers as against the trousers with knee breeches usually worn by the noble class. 
• Cordelier Club: Another lawyer, Danton, dominated the Cordelier Club.

National Convention and Birth of the First French Republic

• The Jacobins organised an uprising during the summer of 1792 in reaction to high prices and a lack of food. In August, they stormed the Palace of the Tuileries, overpowered the king's guards, and held the king hostage.
• The Assembly subsequently voted to imprison the royal family , and elections were held. The newly elected assembly, known as the Convention, abolished the monarchy in September 1792 and declared France a republic.
• Louis XVI was sentenced to death for treason and publicly executed on January 21, 1793, followed by the execution of Queen Marie Antoinette .

The Reign of Terror

The period from 1793 to 1794 is known as the Reign of Terror, characterised by severe control and punishment under the leadership of Maximilien Robespierre .

• Robespierre targeted people he believed to be republican enemies, such as clergy, ex-nobles, people in other political parties, and even his own party's dissidents.
• Those deemed guilty were arrested, imprisoned, and tried by revolutionary tribunals , with a high likelihood of being sentenced to death by guillotine .
• Economic and social changes: Robespierre's government implemented laws to control the economy, such as placing maximum ceilings on wages and prices.
• Meat and bread were rationed, and peasants were forced to carry their grain to cities where it was sold for prices set by the government.
•  Churches were closed, and their buildings were repurposed as barracks or offices.
• The downfall of Robespierre: Over time, even Robespierre's supporters began to call for moderation in his policies. Eventually, he was convicted by a court in July 1794, arrested, and executed by guillotine.

Rule of the Directory

The fall of the Jacobin government allowed the wealthier middle classes to come to power.A new constitution was introducedthat restricted voting rights to property-owning sections of society, excluding non-propertied individuals.

• Introduction of the Directory: The legislative councils appointed a Directory, which consisted of five members and served as the executive branch of the government. The creation of the Directory aimed to prevent the concentration of power in a single individual, as had been the case under the Jacobins.
• Instability of the Directory: The Directors often clashed with the legislative councils, leading to conflicts and attempts to dismiss them. The political instabilitywithin the Directory created a sense of discontent and dissatisfaction among the people.
• Rise of Napoleon Bonaparte: The political instability and power struggles within the Directory created an opportunity for military leaders to seize control. Napoleon Bonaparte emerged as a military dictator and eventually took power, marking the end of the Directory.

The French Revolution had a profound impact not only in France but also throughout Europe, serving as a source of inspiration for anti-colonial intellectuals and movements worldwide during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

• Reduction of Social Inequality: The revolution aimed to reduce social inequality by curbing privileges based on birth.
• Republican government: A republican form of government with electoral rights was established, replacing the monarchy.
• Abolition of the feudal system: The feudal system was abolished, which perpetuated social hierarchies and obligations.
• Abolition of slavery: Although it took time for the total abolition of slavery, the French Revolution played a pivotal role in bringing about its eventual demise.
• Subordination of the Church: The Church lost its supremacy and became subordinate to the state.
• It championed principles such as liberty, equality, and fraternity , shaping the course of history and inspiring subsequent movements for justice and freedom.
• Separation of powers: It resulted in establishing a system with three separate organs of government: legislative, executive, and judiciar y.
• Inspiration for Europe: It sparked hope across Europe, inspiring people to challenge despotic rule and strive for the establishment of egalitarian societies.

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French Revolution FAQs

Why is the french revolution important.

The French Revolution is important because it marked a pivotal turning point in history, challenging the existing social and political order and setting the stage for the rise of democratic principles and ideals worldwide.

Who is called the child of the French Revolution?

Napoleon Bonaparte is often referred to as the "child of the French Revolution" due to his rise to power and subsequent consolidation of authority, which was made possible by the revolutionary changes and upheavals in France.

When did the French Revolution begin?

The French Revolution began on July 14, 1789, with the storming of the Bastille prison in Paris, which is widely regarded as a symbolic event and the initial catalyst for the revolution.

When did the French Revolution end?

The French Revolution is generally considered to have ended with the rise to power of Napoleon Bonaparte in 1799, specifically with the establishment of the Consulate. This marked the consolidation of authority and the transition from the revolutionary period to the Napoleonic era.

Why did the French Revolution start?

The French Revolution started due to a combination of socioeconomic inequality, resentment towards the monarchy, and Enlightenment ideals promoting liberty and equality, with the catalyst being the economic crisis and food shortages faced by the French government.

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What are the impacts of the French Revolution?

Instructions: list the impacts of the french revolution on french society. solution: the french revolution had many lasting results. it marked the end of the system of absolute monarchy in france. it abolished all feudal privileges and the power of the clergy was curbed. it unified all sections of french society and paved the way for the enhanced power of the state. this led to the emergence of feelings of nationalism. this resulted in the emergence of an assertive middle class. revolution upheld the theory of people’s sovereignty and laid the foundation for the birth of liberal constitutional governments in europe..

what were the consequences and the impact of the revolutionary's wars in france following the french revolution

What are the main causes of the French revolution?

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Effects of the French Revolution

Introduction, nationalism and the idea of a nation-state emerge, the liberal nationalism stand, the reforms made by napoleon, europe and conservatism.

During the late-eighteen century, colonial North America experienced the changing effect of the American Revolution, which gave birth to the modern nation-state regime. The emergence of the government enabled the attainment of the independence of states and resulted in the adoption of a written constitution, with the creation of a state which would honor equality being the primary consideration. Before the revolution, all the states were ruled under legitimacy principles (Rosenfeld, 2019). This governmental design was based on the idea of the nation-state, with these two main assumptions acting as directives (Kelly, 2015). Before the formation of the administration, there was a need to introduce the needed phenomenon of an amalgamation that occurred in the course of the revolution. The revolt in France put forward nationalism, nation-state ideology, matters about liberal nationalism, the Napoleon reforms, and the idea of conservatism after the defeat of Napoleon, which are the pillars of the current world governorship.

The 15th-century intellectual innovations, including capitalism, economy, political geography, and mercantilism, contributed to the formation of this regime. It is argued that the state existed first before the formation of sovereign countries. From a federal land, the nationalist movements were created by the struggle for sovereignty, hence generating the demands for establishing this dominion municipality (Gustavsson, 2019). During this period, the metropolis occurred as an entity, which was created through new policies, structured to help the government quest to modernize and unify an already existing state (Gustavsson, 2019). There is a close connection of the nation-state phenomenon to modern Europe because its operation matured under the governance and facilitation of such developments as a unity which was to be the mandate of participating states. According to Kelly (2015), this government had specific characteristics built on the factors shaping the modern nationality. The entire development, however, contrasted the pre-nation states’ aspirations by creating a need to remain united.

The instruments of coherence encompassed such facets as economy, national unity, and cultural life. The arrangement of public administration transpired in the confines of predecessors because they were not only less diverse but also limited, hence facilitating nationalism (Rosenfeld, 2019). Therefore, the formations of the administration were attained by the influence of economics, political geography, political and mercantilism innovation, which also formed nationalism, before establishing liberal nationalism.

Prior to the establishment of the aspects of unity, the liberalism campaign in Europe commenced at the time of the French Revolution. In the context of the philosophy of politics, the term first appeared in the eighteenth century (Gustavsson, 2019). Kelly (2015) alludes that Liberal Nationalism ideas also materialized in the welfare state by ensuring the gap between the theory of politics and psychology on the economic solidarity and national identity narrows. The term, however, stood for economic solidarity and cooperation through which welfare is redistricted. The primary need was to form a strong government, but also to ensure a sense of cohesion. The target of the ideology was the unity of the citizens through fighting for a robust national identity (Gustavsson, 2019). Besides, under the stipulation of liberals, it was necessary to build an inclusive system of governance that would serve minorities and immigrants. It was, therefore, easier to permit uniformity among people who had cultural minorities and varied ethnicity through the system’s unity.

The nature of the system itself influenced both France and other European states to experience the governing power of Napoleon, who to some was a hero and a true evil to others. Nevertheless, he was the key individual to control and engage the aspects of the revolution. As a leader, Napoleon managed to make the French central government strong. He succeeded in encouraging industry, controlling prices, and building such infrastructure as canals and roads. Besides, Napoleon employed mechanisms that envisioned his reforms in unique ways. In the law sector, he was able to determine the French’s legal system and changed many rules which were to some extent chaotic and poorly coded (Horne, n.d.). He reformed the administration by centralizing it and chose to put the regime in firm control under his state. In the context of education, the politician built many new lyceums and schools for children aged 10 to 16 (Horne, n.d.). Through education, he was able to support citizens who would fill the positions in his military and bureaucracy realms. Napoleon was a reformist, considering that he wanted his state to be stable in all aspects.

Napoleon had the privilege of serving his people as much as he could, but some of the points he achieved were not permanent. After the defeat of Napoleon, the state enacted another settlement, which was engineered by Metternich (Horne, n.d.). The aim was to reinstate both the social and political order, which had existed before the revolution. The moment the politician lost his regime, the supporters of the monarchy, including the clergy and the landowners, cooperated to form an alliance. These individuals were widely influential in the rural setting because the region was inhabited by conservative peasants who were not significantly affected by innovations and industrialization (Horne, n.d.). Much worse, the city dwellers continued to be more active than people in the rural areas, a fact which discouraged the conservatives from maintaining their ground. The ultimate repercussion was that conversation aspects decreased instead of increasing.

In conclusion, the late-eighteenth century is in the record as a period for dramatic change, during which the introduction of the nation-states and the revolutionists who wanted the best for their citizens was witnessed. In the process, the idea of state nationalism emerged and formed liberal nationalism, which allowed Napoleon to assume power. Although he implemented various useful reforms, he was subsequently defeated, leaving the conservationists diminishing in their development.

Gustavsson, G. (2019). Liberal national identity: Thinner than conservative, thicker than civic – but in terms of what? Ethnicities , 19 (4), 693-711. Web.

Horne, A. (n.d.). The Age of Napoleon . Modern Library.

Kelly, P. (2015). Liberalism and nationalism: Ethnicities. In W. Steven (Ed.), The Cambridge Companion to Liberalism. Cambridge Companions to Philosophy (pp. 693-711). Sage.

Rosenfeld, S. (2019). The French revolution in cultural history. Journal of Social History, 52 (3), 555-565. Web.

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