Imperialism vs. Nationalism: Two nineteenth century depictions of executions

The two paintings below are among the most well-known of the past two centuries.

Compare and contrast the historical events surrounding these two incidents, and each artist's depiction of the respective events. (I highly suggest you click on the links-- they are quite interesting).

The Third of May 1808 by Francisco Goya.

Historical context: Spielvogel pg. 558.

Here is a good, simple analysis of the painting. Here is a more scholarly view, from the Met.

The Execution of Emperor Maximilian by Edouard Manet.

Historical context of Napoleon III's "Mexican adventure": Spielvogel pg. 623.

Here is an excellent web site from the MoMA discussing the above painting and Manet's several versions.

Finally, here are some questions for comparison (click on the paintings for separate pages devoted to each).

1848: "Prussians are shooting Prussians!"

Hello again! I am reviving this blog both to supplement what we learn in class and to help with review for the AP exam.

A possible FRQ question may read something like this:

Analyze how conservatism, liberalism, nationalism, and realism helped or hindered German unity between 1815 and 1871.

Since there is no need to address Metternich again, let's start with the failed 1848 revolutions in the German lands...

First, you may remember Carl Shurz's account on pg. 607 (Spielvogel Chapter 21). Shurz was the first German-born American senator. Here is a link to the full account (it has two more paragraphs). As you read this, relate it to Heinrich von Gagern's letter to his father on pg. 597.

Here is an interesting secondary summary of events, titled "The March Days of 1848" that provides some detailed information (for example, German nationalists also used a tricolor cockade and illustrations).

Finally, here is a great set of short Documents of German Unification 1848-1871 (Including the Imperial Proclamation!) NOTE: These would work well for DBQ point of view practice as well.

Since you do not have time to answer the above question in essay form, write down main points that you would use as evidence for each sub-topic.

We will go over this question in one of the May evening review sessions.