Advanced Placement (AP) European History Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes the impact of the wars of the French Revolution and of Napoleon on Europe?

1. The wars created a period of lasting peace in Europe

2. The wars led to the spread of nationalist and liberal thought across Europe

3. They solidified absolute monarchies throughout the continent

4. The conflicts resulted in economic depression across Europe

The correct answer is: The wars led to the spread of nationalist and liberal thought across Europe

The wars of the French Revolution and of Napoleon significantly shaped European politics, society, and ideology in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The correct answer highlights how these conflicts facilitated the widespread dissemination of nationalist and liberal ideas across the continent. During this tumultuous period, the concepts of popular sovereignty, individual rights, and national identity gained traction, challenging established monarchies and feudal structures. The French Revolution itself was driven by the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity, which inspired various revolutionary movements throughout Europe. As Napoleon expanded his empire, he carried these ideologies into the territories he conquered and influenced, often dismantling feudal systems in favor of more modern state structures rooted in nationalism. In contrast to the correct answer, the notion of establishing lasting peace (as suggested by one of the alternatives) is less accurate, as the wars actually set off a series of conflicts that would continue well into the 19th century. The idea that the wars solidified absolute monarchies is also misleading since they sparked movements aimed at democratization and the rise of national consciousness, which weakened traditional absolute power. Additionally, while there were economic repercussions due to the wars, characterizing the entire period as one of economic depression overlooks the varying degrees