NATIONALISM and REVOLUTIONS, 1750-1900 [AP World History Review—Unit 5 Topic 2]

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Understanding Nationalism and Revolutions, 1750-1900

1. Understanding the Rise of Nationalism

• Key Point: Nationalism emerged as a significant factor leading to revolutions during the 18th and 19th centuries.
• Instruction:
  • Nationalism refers to a sense of commonality among a people based on shared language and a desire for territory.
  • This concept was a new development during this period, unlike large empires like the Ottoman Empire or the Mongol Empire that did not have a singular ethnic or linguistic identity.
  • The idea that people with a shared culture, history, and ethnicity should have their own territory and govern themselves became increasingly strong.

2. Impact of Nationalism on Revolutions

• Key Point: Nationalistic fervor was used by some states to foster unity but also led to counter-nationalism in certain regions.
• Instruction:
  • Some states promoted nationalism by incorporating nationalist themes in schools, public rituals, and military service.
  • For example, Russian leaders enforced the use of the Russian language to create unity among diverse ethnicities under their rule.
  • However, in places like Ukraine, Poland, and Finland, imposing Russian language led to a stronger counter-nationalism against Russian authority.

3. Causes of Revolutions

• Key Point: Revolutions were also fueled by discontent with monarchies and the development of new ideologies.
• Instruction:
  • Widespread discontent with monarchies and oppressive rule was a significant cause of revolutions.
  • The development of new ideologies like popular sovereignty, democracy, and liberalism also played a crucial role in inspiring revolutionary movements.

4. Major Revolutions

• Key Point: The American, French, Haitian, and Latin American revolutions were significant events influenced by democratic ideals and Enlightenment principles.
• Instruction:
  • Understand the key events and principles behind each revolution, such as the American Revolution's fight for independence, the French Revolution's establishment of a republic, the Haitian Revolution's fight against slavery, and the Latin American Revolutions' quest for independence from colonial powers.

5. Impact of Nationalism on Unification

• Key Point: Nationalism also played a role in movements for self-rule and unification in various regions.
• Instruction:
  • Explore how nationalist movements in the Philippines, Italy, and Germany led to calls for self-rule and eventual unification of fragmented states under single governments.
  • Understand the role of nationalism in shaping the political landscape of these regions during the 18th and 19th centuries.

6. Conclusion and Further Learning

• Instruction:
  • Reflect on the significance of nationalism and revolutions in shaping the modern world.
  • Consider exploring additional resources to deepen your understanding of this historical period.

By following these steps, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the impact of nationalism and revolutions between 1750 and 1900, and how these factors shaped the course of history during this period.