Home / IB DP History / IBDP History HL Paper 3 – Unification of Germany and Italy (1815–1871) – Exam-Style Questions
To what extent did the Congress of Vienna contribute to the emergence of German nationalism? \([15]\)
Detailed solution
The Congress of Vienna contributed to German nationalism, but nationalist ideas, repression and economic development were also important.
German nationalism had developed before \(1815\), particularly through resistance to Napoleon. Prussia and other German states had fought against French rule.
The Vienna settlement reduced the number of German states to \(39\) within the German Confederation. By excluding Austria’s non-German territories, it acknowledged a degree of shared German identity.
Metternich’s repressive system, including the Carlsbad Decrees, further stimulated nationalism. Educated professional groups increasingly believed that a united Germany was necessary for political influence.
Economic factors also encouraged nationalism. The Zollverein, especially after \(1834\), promoted Prussian leadership, while Austria’s exclusion encouraged nationalists to look to Prussia as the centre of a future united Germany.
“Foreign influence was the key factor in enabling Italian unification by \(1871\).” To what extent do you agree with this statement? \([15]\)
Detailed solution
Foreign influence was important in Italian unification, but Piedmontese leadership and domestic support for unity were also essential.
Cavour and Victor Emmanuel II led Piedmont in establishing the Kingdom of Italy by \(1861\). Cavour persuaded the Central Duchies to join the new state, showing that Italian leadership was central.
Support for unification had also grown within Italy. Garibaldi regarded national unity as more important than the creation of a republic.
Foreign assistance nevertheless helped at decisive points. France supported Piedmont through the Pact of Plombières and French troops fought in the Second War of Independence.
Britain gave tacit support to Garibaldi, Prussia helped Italy gain Venetia in \(1866\), and French withdrawal from Rome in \(1870\) allowed it to become Italy’s capital. Thus, foreign influence was crucial, but it was effective because of Italian leadership and nationalism.