European History 2019
Q. No. 2. Why did the post-French Revolution phase has been marked by rational and effective governments in Europe? (20)
Q. No. 3. How did the peace settlement of 1814-15 restore effective balance of power and pave the way to a European peace? (20)
Q. No. 4. What social movements led to the political consolidation of various states of the Italian peninsula that unified a single nation of Italy? (20)
Q. No. 5. Write an account of Bismarck’s diplomacy for Germany that made her a leading European State. (20)
Q. No. 6. Why did Europe become a continent of dictatorships after the First World War? (20)
Q. No. 7. What was the impact of German reunification on Eastern Europe and the USSR? (20)
Q. No. 8. Why did the concept of supranational European institutions emerge in the aftermath of WW II? (20)
Summaries of Questions:
Q. No. 2: Why did the post-French Revolution phase have been marked by rational and effective governments in Europe?
After the French Revolution, Europe saw the rise of rational and effective governments due to the influence of Enlightenment ideals. Revolutionary leaders, inspired by principles of democracy, liberty, and equality, sought to establish more organized and efficient governments. Reforms such as the Napoleonic Code, the rise of constitutional monarchies, and the spread of nationalist movements led to political systems that were more responsive to the needs of the people, although they were also often authoritarian.
Q. No. 3: How did the peace settlement of 1814-15 restore an effective balance of power and pave the way to European peace?
The peace settlement of 1814-15, particularly the Congress of Vienna, aimed to restore the balance of power in Europe after the Napoleonic Wars. By re-establishing monarchies and redrawing national boundaries, it sought to prevent any single country from dominating Europe again. The agreements ensured that European powers would maintain a system of diplomacy and alliances to preserve peace, leading to nearly a century of stability in Europe, known as the Concert of Europe.
Q. No. 4: What social movements led to the political consolidation of various states of the Italian peninsula that unified a single nation of Italy?
The unification of Italy was driven by various social movements, including the efforts of intellectuals, nationalists, and revolutionaries. Key movements like the Romanticism of Mazzini’s Young Italy, Garibaldi’s military campaigns, and Cavour’s diplomatic strategy helped unite the fragmented Italian states. Nationalism and a shared desire for independence from foreign rule were critical in consolidating the different regions into a unified nation.
Q. No. 5: Write an account of Bismarck’s diplomacy for Germany that made her a leading European state.
Bismarck’s diplomacy was central to the unification and rise of Germany as a leading European power. Through a series of strategic wars—against Denmark, Austria, and France—he manipulated alliances and conflicts to isolate enemies and strengthen Prussia’s position. Bismarck’s skillful diplomacy also ensured Germany’s dominance in Europe, particularly through his creation of the League of the Three Emperors and the careful management of alliances, preventing war on multiple fronts.
Q. No. 6: Why did Europe become a continent of dictatorships after the First World War?
After World War I, Europe became a continent of dictatorships due to the economic and political instability caused by the war. The Great Depression, widespread disillusionment with democratic governments, and fear of communism created fertile ground for authoritarian leaders. Dictators like Mussolini in Italy and Hitler in Germany promised stability, economic recovery, and national revival, leading to the collapse of democratic systems in many European countries.
Q. No. 7: What was the impact of German reunification on Eastern Europe and the USSR?
German reunification in 1990 had a significant impact on Eastern Europe and the USSR. It marked the end of the Cold War and led to the collapse of Soviet influence in Eastern Europe, as many countries sought to join the European Union and NATO. The reunification also contributed to the weakening of the USSR, accelerating its eventual dissolution in 1991, as it exposed the weakening control of the Soviet regime and highlighted the need for reform.
Q. No. 8: Why did the concept of supranational European institutions emerge in the aftermath of WW II?
After World War II, the concept of supranational European institutions emerged as a way to prevent future conflicts and promote economic recovery. European leaders recognized the need for cooperation to rebuild the continent and maintain peace. This led to the creation of institutions like the European Coal and Steel Community and later the European Economic Community, which aimed to integrate the economies of European nations, fostering cooperation and reducing the likelihood of war.