Intervention

Definition

Intervention refers to the act of a nation or group of nations intervening in the affairs of another country, typically for political, military, or humanitarian reasons. In the context of European history during the 19th century, particularly through the mechanisms established by the Concert of Europe, intervention was often justified by the need to maintain stability and uphold conservative order against revolutionary movements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The principle of intervention was formally articulated during the Congress of Vienna in 1815, aiming to prevent the spread of revolutionary ideas and maintain the balance of power in Europe.
2. Major powers like Austria, Prussia, and Russia actively intervened in various conflicts across Europe during the 19th century, such as in France (1830) and Hungary (1848).
3. Intervention often sparked backlash and resistance from those it targeted, leading to increased nationalistic sentiments and further revolutions.
4. The most notable interventionist action was the suppression of the Hungarian Revolution in 1848 by a coalition led by Austria and Russia.
5. The legacy of intervention helped shape international relations in Europe, establishing a precedent for future involvement in domestic affairs based on political ideology or humanitarian concerns.

Review Questions

• How did the principle of intervention reflect the goals of European powers in the 19th century?
  • The principle of intervention reflected the desire of European powers to maintain a conservative order after years of upheaval during the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. By intervening in conflicts within member states, they aimed to suppress revolutionary movements that threatened established monarchies and preserve the balance of power across Europe. This strategy was seen as essential for ensuring long-term stability and preventing the spread of liberal ideologies.
• Evaluate the impact of intervention on revolutionary movements in Europe during the 19th century.
  • Intervention significantly influenced revolutionary movements by often resulting in their suppression, which could temporarily restore order but also fueled resentment and resistance. While conservative powers sought to crush uprisings like those in France and Hungary, such interventions often backfired by strengthening nationalist sentiments among those oppressed. The persistent pattern of foreign intervention helped create a cycle where revolutions would erupt anew as people pushed back against external control over their internal affairs.
• Assess how interventions carried out by the Concert of Europe contributed to shaping modern European political ideologies.
  • Interventions carried out by the Concert of Europe had a lasting impact on modern European political ideologies by reinforcing a dichotomy between conservatism and liberalism. As conservative powers intervened to quell revolutions, they inadvertently legitimized liberal demands for self-determination and governance. Over time, these interventions exposed underlying tensions between traditional monarchies and emerging democratic ideals, paving the way for future ideological conflicts that would shape national identities and political landscapes throughout Europe into the 20th century.

Related terms

Concert of Europe:

A diplomatic agreement among major European powers to maintain peace and stability after the Napoleonic Wars, often involving collective interventions in member states.

Restoration:

The period following the Napoleonic Wars where monarchies were re-established across Europe, often supported by interventionist policies to suppress liberal and nationalist movements.

Revolutionary Movements:

Political uprisings that sought to overthrow existing governments and social structures, which often prompted intervention from conservative powers.