Question

What were the main changes brought by the Vienna Treaty?

Hint:

The Vienna Treaty focused on restoring European stability after the Napoleonic Wars by strengthening monarchies, redrawing borders, and ensuring a balance of power to prevent future conflicts.

Answer 1

Overview:
The Vienna Treaty, signed in 1815, aimed to restore stability to Europe after the Napoleonic Wars. The treaty sought to re-establish old borders, balance power, and prevent the rise of another dominant power like Napoleonic France. It laid the foundation for a century of relative peace in Europe, known as the "Concert of Europe."
Key Points:
1. Restoration of Monarchies:
The Vienna Treaty sought to restore monarchies that had been displaced during the Napoleonic Wars. It reinstated kings and rulers in countries such as France, Spain, and the Kingdom of Sardinia, reversing revolutionary changes.
2. Territorial Redrawing:
The treaty redrew the map of Europe, with significant territorial adjustments. France was returned to its 1792 borders, but several of its territories were taken away. The Netherlands, Prussia, and Austria gained territories to strengthen their positions.
3. Creation of the Holy Alliance and the Concert of Europe:
A key result of the Vienna Treaty was the creation of the Holy Alliance (Russia, Austria, and Prussia) and the establishment of the Concert of Europe, an agreement between major European powers to maintain the status quo and prevent revolutionary movements.
4. Balance of Power:
The main goal of the treaty was to maintain a balance of power in Europe, preventing any one nation from becoming too powerful. This system of collective diplomacy helped avoid major wars in Europe until the mid-19th century.