Student Question
Which European countries gained independence in 1830 and 1831, and where did the first Balkan revolt begin?
The relevant countries and cities are Serbia, Prague, Rome, Budapest, France, Portugal, Belgium, Vienna, Paris, and Greece.
Quick answer:
In 1830 and 1831, Belgium gained independence from the Netherlands, while Greece achieved independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1832. The first Balkan revolt, which contributed to ongoing regional tensions, began in Serbia. These events were part of a broader wave of revolutionary movements across Europe, including France's revolution in 1830, which deposed the monarchy again, and failed attempts in Poland and Austria. These uprisings were precursors to later conflicts, including World War I.
From the French Revolution to the Age of Napoleon to the Revolutions of 1848, Europe was in constant political turmoil for the first half of the 19th century. Inspired by revolutionary movements in France and in the New World, Europeans began to revolt and establish new political entities. Belgium broke away from the Netherlands in 1831; Greece broke away from the Ottoman Empire in 1832, France underwent yet another revolution in 1830 which once again deposed the monarchy; Poland attempted a revolt but was crushed by Russia, Austria attempted to alter its government, but the movement was also crushed; Most notably, the failure of Austria and what are now the Balkans to reform led to one of the principle catalysts for the First World War.
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