Main Objective of the Treaty of Vienna of 1815
The Treaty of Vienna of 1815 was a conference of ambassadors of European states chaired by the Austrian statesman Klemens Wenzel von Metternich. The main objective of the Treaty of Vienna was to redraw the political map of Europe after the defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte in 1815. The conference was held in Vienna, Austria, from September 1814 to June 1815.
Restoration of Monarchy
The treaty aimed to restore the monarchy system in Europe. The Treaty was signed by the representatives of Austria, Prussia, Russia, Great Britain, and France. The powers that defeated Napoleon agreed to restore the monarchies that had been overthrown during the Napoleonic Wars. The Treaty of Vienna, therefore, sought to reestablish the old order in Europe and to create a balance of power between the major European powers.
Redrawing of Boundaries
The Treaty also aimed to redraw the boundaries of Europe. The treaty recognized the new states that had emerged during the Napoleonic Wars, such as the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Kingdom of Sardinia. The boundaries of these states were set, and the territories that had been annexed by France were returned to their former owners. The treaty also recognized the neutrality of Switzerland and Belgium.
Compensation for Losses
The Treaty of Vienna also aimed to compensate the major powers for their losses during the Napoleonic Wars. France was required to pay a war indemnity of 700 million francs to the victorious powers. Prussia was given territories in Saxony, and Russia was given control of parts of Poland. The treaty also recognized the British control of Malta and the Ionian Islands.
Suppression of Nationalism and Liberalism
The Treaty of Vienna was also aimed at suppressing nationalism and liberalism in Europe. The treaty sought to establish a conservative order in Europe that would prevent the spread of revolutionary ideas. The powers that signed the treaty agreed to cooperate in suppressing any revolutionary movements that might emerge in Europe.
Conclusion
The Treaty of Vienna of 1815 was a major event in European history. It sought to restore the old order in Europe and to create a balance of power between the major European powers. The treaty recognized the new states that had emerged during the Napoleonic Wars, and it compensated the major powers for their losses. The treaty also aimed to suppress nationalism and liberalism in Europe and to establish a conservative order that would prevent the spread of revolutionary ideas.