Background: Metternich and the Austrian Empire, 1809–48

Prince Klemens von Metternich served as the Austrian Chancellor from 1809 to 1848.
Austria was one of the dominant powers in Europe, with vast territories and diverse cultures.
Metternich was a key player in forming the Congress of Vienna (1814-15), which shaped Europe’s map after Napoleon’s defeat.
His primary political aim was to maintain the balance of power to prevent future wars.

Metternich’s Policies

Metternich was a staunch conservative, advocating for Monarchism and opposing radical change.
He implemented a policy of Metternich System, which promoted the principle of legitimacy, restoration of the pre-Napoleonic order, and repression of liberal and nationalistic ideas.
To maintain the stability of the empire, he introduced a system of vigorous censorship and secret police.
Because of the complex ethnic diversity of the Austrian Empire, Metternich encouraged multinationalism as a means of integrating various nationalities.

He pursued a policy of intervention to suppress revolutionary movements within Europe, shown in his support of the Carlsbad Decrees (1819) which clamped down on liberal university students.
Metternich was a key player during the formation of the Holy Alliance (1815), a political agreement that united Europe’s conservative regimes against internal and external threats from liberalism and nationalism.
During the Revolutions of 1848, Metternich fell from power and went into exile.

The era of Metternich was marked by relative peace in Europe, but was charged with considerable political tension because of the repression of liberal and nationalist movements.
He was successful in maintaining the Austrian empire and keeping it intact during his tenure.
His demise in 1848 marked the downfall of Metternich System and the rise of liberal and nationalist forces.

Metternich left a lasting legacy in European diplomatic history. His concept of balance of power continues to influence international relations.
His reactionary policies, however, have been critiqued for delaying the democratic evolution of the continent.
Metternich’s role in the Congress of Vienna is regarded as a fine example of successful diplomatic manoeuvring.