representatives came from most european countries. even france was allowed to send a delegate

E. Napp

After the fall of Napoleon, a group of aristocratic leaders from various European countries met together to make decisions about how to govern Europe.

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The members of this group preferred the old power structure to democracy. Because of their efforts, conservatism enjoyed a temporary triumph over liberalism in Europe.

E. Napp

Europe’s conservative leaders held a conference in Vienna, Austria, in September 1814, to discuss ways to prevent more revolutions.

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Representatives came from most European countries. Even France was allowed to send a delegate.

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However, Prince Klemens von Metternich, a brilliant Austrian diplomat, dominated the conference.

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Metternich’s ideas greatly influenced European affairs for 30 years by encouraging a balance of power among nations.

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Its leaders hoped that the rules they made would prevent any one nation from becoming militarily stronger than its neighbors.

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If successful, a balance of power would keep Europe at peace.

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The general agreement among the leading powers about the aims of the congress has been labeled the Concert of Europe.

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The leaders of the congress also supported the principle of legitimacy. They felt that absolute monarchy was the most stable form of government.

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The congress also opposed the efforts of Poles, Belgians, and other national groups to govern themselves.

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Metternich feared that nationalism would destroy his own and similar states and make Europe more vulnerable for war.

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But while the Congress of Vienna tried to restore the old ways and put an end to nationalism, change had come with the Revolution.