What event did Metternich's remark 'When France sneezes, the rest of Europe catches cold' refer to?

Question

Accepted Answer

## Model Answer Metternich's remark referred to the **revolutionary upheaval in France in 1830**, and the fear that the spirit of revolution and liberal-nationalist ideas would spread across Europe. Just as France had sparked the French Revolution, Metternich warned that any revolutionary outburst in France would inspire similar revolts and nationalist movements in other European countries. **Source:** Chapter 1 – Nationalism in Europe, Section on Conservative Order after 1815. --- ## Explanation - The examiner expects you to identify that Metternich was expressing fear of the **spread of revolutionary/liberal-nationalist ideas** from France to the rest of Europe. - Mention Metternich's role as a conservative leader (Austrian Chancellor) who feared revolution — this gives context. - Do not write a long essay; 2 marks = 2 key points: (1) what event/phenomenon it referred to, (2) what it meant (contagion of revolution).

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