This post helps you understand what Nationalism is, when its clear-cut expression first came in France, and how the people of France achieved a collective identity. In addition, it also tells you about the Napoleonic Code and its key provisions.
Rise of Nationalism in Europe – Class 10 History Notes (Part 1)
What is Nationalism?
- Feeling of oneness based on common history, culture, language, and ethnicity.
Frédéric Sorrieu
- French artist
- Prepared 4 symbolic prints in 1848
- Imagined a world of free, equal, and democratic nations
- His vision was utopian (ideal but imaginary)
Utopian
- An ideal society unlikely to exist in reality
Ernest Renan
- French philosopher
- Gave a famous lecture at Sorbonne University in 1882
- Published “What is a Nation?”
Plebiscite
- Direct vote by the people to accept or reject a proposal
The French Revolution and the Idea of the Nation
- First clear expression of nationalism – 1789
- France was under absolute monarchy before 1789
- Sovereignty transferred to citizens via National Assembly
Steps to Develop Collective Identity
- La patrie (Fatherland) and le citoyen (Citizen)
- Tricolour flag adopted
- Estates General renamed to National Assembly
- Centralised administrative system
- Uniform laws for all citizens
- Internal custom duties abolished
- New hymns, oaths, and martyr commemorations
- French made national language; dialects discouraged
Spread of Nationalism Across Europe
- Revolutionary ideas spread by French army and Napoleonic wars
- Jacobin clubs set up across Europe
- Led by students and middle-class intellectuals
📘 Must Read:
Rise of Nationalism in Europe – Part 2
Return of Monarchy
- Fall of Jacobins → Rise of unstable Directory
- Napoleon Bonaparte seized power
Napoleon Bonaparte
- Military dictator
- Ended democracy in France
- Introduced Napoleonic Code (1804)
Key Features of Napoleonic Code
- Abolished privileges based on birth
- Equality before law
- Right to property secured
- Simplified administrative divisions
- Ended feudalism and manorial dues
- Improved transport and communication
- Removed guild restrictions
- Uniform laws, standard weights, and common currency
Spread to: Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Dutch Republic, Holland
Reaction to French Armies
- Initially welcomed as liberators
- Later faced hostility due to policies
Reasons for Hostility Towards Napoleon
- High taxation
- Censorship
- Forced conscription into the army
Napoleon was finally defeated at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815.
Source: NCERT
📘 Also Read:
Rise of Nationalism in Europe – Part 3
Development – Class 10 Notes
