‘In long run, the Vienna Settlement could not solve the problems
of the powers.’ Examine the validity of this view with reference
to European condition during the period 1815-48.
This question requires you to examine:
1. the problems of the powers in 1814-15,
2. discuss how the Vienna Settlement tried to solve them, and
3. to what extent the settlement was successful from 1815-48
*** note that the quotation assumes that the Vienna Settlement could not solve the
problems in long run, i.e. 1830-48
Points for discussion:
1. It seems that there were many revolts from 1820 onwards, so can we say that the
2.
3.
4.
5.
settlement could not solve the problem on the spread of nationalism and
liberalism?
Belgium was independent in 1830, so can we say that France was no longer
encircled from 1830 onwards and hence the settlement was failed in this sense?
What about the Eastern Question that some historians blamed the settlement for
ignoring its significance and hence failed to solve that problem?
The settlement arranged both Prussia and Austria to supervise the German
Confederation and hence created conflicts there, Is it true?
Did the settlement solve the problem on maintaining peace in Europe?
Suggested framework:
1. Explain the problems.
2. Discuss several incidents that implied the failure of the Vienna Settlement in
solving the problems. e.g. Belgian revolt, Eastern Question.
3.
Discuss the validity of the accusation:
a. Could not keep peace? what about balance of power
b. Could not encircle France? Yes, Belgium was independent but could France
break the encirclement?
c. COuld not uproot liberalism and nationalism as there were many revolts?
What were the real causes of the revolts and how strong was these two
forces?
d. Could not stop the Eastern Question and the conflict between Prussia and
Austria? Seaman argued that could we blame on the Vienna Congress in
failing to foresee the future problems which were not obvious in 1815?