Skip to content
    History A-Level

    Nationalism and liberalism

    What Nationalism and liberalism means in History A-Level, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.

    Definitions of Nationalism and liberalism

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Nationalism and liberalism in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: Pearson Edexcel

    Nationalism grew as some Germans wanted a single nation-state, while liberalism grew among educated middle classes seeking constitutions, parliaments and civil rights.
    Pearson Edexcel · Paper 2, Option 2D.2: The unification of Germany, c1840–71 - 1 Popular pressure and causes of revolution, 1840–48 (study guide)
    Liberal and nationalist agitation was one of the short-term triggers of the 1848–49 revolutions in Italy.
    Pearson Edexcel · Paper 2, Option 2D.1: The unification of Italy, c1830–70 - 1 Challenges to the restored order and the failure of revolution, c1830–49 (study guide)

    Topics that use Nationalism and liberalism

    Related terms

    Using Nationalism and liberalism in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise History questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All History A-Level terms