Question

How was liberalism allied to national unity in Europe in the early decades of the 19^th century? Analyse.

Answer 1

• The removal of aristocratic privileges is what the liberal middle classes interpret as national unity. Individual freedom and equality before the law were central to liberalism.
• The idea of government was highlighted by liberalism. It called for a constitution and parliamentary representative government. When the Parliament is run properly, national unity can be preserved.
• In terms of the economy, liberalism supports market freedom and the removal of governmental limitations on the flow of capital and goods. The middle class made a strong push for national unification during the nineteenth century.
• The development of railroads made it easier to transport people and products between different areas. A sense of solidarity and common economic goals were promoted by this infrastructural development, which was in line with the liberal good.
• Liberals promoted representative institutions and constitutional government, emphasising the idea of governing by agreement.