Revolutions of 1848

The revolutions of 1848 were a broad set of political, social, and national revolutions that threatened the established political and social order in almost every part of the Atlantic world. The revolutions were a diverse set of events ranging from limited political changes to radical separatist or unification movements, threatening to overthrow the international balance of power. The revolutions were a powerful reminder that the legacies of the French Revolution were still vibrant. This was the last time liberal-nationalists challenged established orders. Never before or since did political and social challenges occur on such a massive scale.

The events of 1848 had a variety of causes. There were people who had political demands for a constitutional or liberal form of government, respect for political rights and ...