National Sovereignty

Definition

National sovereignty refers to the authority of a state to govern itself and make decisions without external interference. This principle was central to the political landscape of Europe during the 19th century, particularly in the context of the Concert of Europe and the rise of European conservatism, where maintaining order and stability often meant prioritizing the sovereignty of nation-states over revolutionary movements and liberal ideas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. National sovereignty became a critical concept during the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars as European leaders sought to restore stability through the Concert of Europe.
2. The principle was often used by conservative leaders to justify their opposition to revolutionary movements that threatened the established order.
3. National sovereignty allowed states to resist external pressures for reform or intervention, reinforcing conservative regimes across Europe.
4. The idea was instrumental in shaping nationalist movements, where groups sought to establish independent states based on common identity, culture, or ethnicity.
5. Conflicts over national sovereignty emerged as new ideologies like liberalism and socialism challenged conservative power structures during the 19th century.

Review Questions

• How did the principle of national sovereignty influence the policies of the Concert of Europe?
  • The principle of national sovereignty was foundational to the Concert of Europe as it guided major powers to respect each other's territorial integrity and governance. This respect was vital for maintaining peace after the upheavals of the Napoleonic Wars. The Concert's members sought to suppress revolutionary movements in favor of conservative governance, reflecting their commitment to preserving national sovereignty while also ensuring stability across Europe.
• In what ways did national sovereignty intersect with the rise of European conservatism during this period?
  • National sovereignty and European conservatism were closely linked as conservative leaders argued that strong national sovereignty was essential for maintaining order and preventing chaos. By prioritizing the autonomy of states, conservatives resisted calls for democratic reforms and revolutions. They viewed any challenge to national sovereignty as a threat not only to their rule but also to social stability, thus reinforcing their conservative agendas.
• Evaluate how national sovereignty has evolved from the 19th century to today, particularly in relation to global governance and international law.
  • Since the 19th century, national sovereignty has faced challenges from globalization and international law, which promote cooperation among states for addressing global issues like human rights and climate change. While states still value their sovereignty, there is an increasing recognition that absolute sovereignty can be problematic when it leads to violations of human rights or environmental degradation. The evolution reflects a balancing act between respecting national sovereignty and acknowledging collective responsibilities in an interconnected world.

Related terms

Concert of Europe:

A diplomatic agreement among major European powers established after the Napoleonic Wars, aimed at maintaining a balance of power and preventing revolutions.

Conservatism:

A political philosophy that promotes retaining traditional institutions and values, emphasizing stability and order over radical change.

Self-Determination: The principle that nations have the right to determine their own political status and pursue their own economic, social, and cultural development.