The revolutions in Germany in 1848-1849 failed for several reasons. By mid-1849, the wave of disorder had been put down by authorities in Prussia and other states. The hopes of the revolutionaries died out as conservative forces reasserted control. By 1850, it seemed as if the revolutionary events of the previous years had never occurred, as the old political order was restored with dynastic empires like Austria, Prussia, and Russia still dominating central and eastern Europe. However, the revolutions did result in the remnants of feudalism being swept away and parliamentary systems being introduced, but ultimately conservative forces prevailed over revolutionary ideals.

1. THE FAILURE OF THE
GERMAN REVOLUTIONS
KEY QUESTION: Why did the revolutions fail?

2. • By mid-1849 failure was clear.
• The wave of disorder that had swept through
Germany in the spring and summer of 1849
had been put down. In Prussia the liberals
were defeated, police powers increased & the
role of local government reduced.

3. RESTORATION OF THE OLD ORDER…
• By 1850 it seemed as if the events of the
previous two years had never been;
nothing had changed in most of the
states.
• The hopes of the revolutionaries had
died. By 1849 the forces of reaction were
once again in the ascendent.
• The three dynastic empires of Austria,
Prussia and Russia continued to dominate
central and eastern Europe.

4. This German cartoon, entitled ‘Panorama of Europe’, appeared in
August 1849. Explain the significance of the large figure with a broom
in the centre of the cartoon.

5. WHY?
European
failure
Revolutionary
divisions
Rural
apathy
Strength of
parochialism
Failure of
Frankfurt
Parliament
Conservative
strength

6. The 1848-49 revolutions were a severe setback
for liberalism, but not a total failure.
• At least the remnants of feudalism had been swept
away.
• Parliamentary government of a sort had been
introduced to Prussia.
• After 1848 virtually all the monarchical regimes in
Germany accepted the need to modernise.
• Conservatives also accepted the need to show an
interest in the social problems of the lower classes if
they were to ensure mass support for their policies
and/or regimes.
• Moreover, the revolutions had helped to stir national
consciousness across Germany.