Explain what is meant by the 1848 revolution of the liberals. What were the political, social and economic ideas supported by the liberals?

In Germany, Italy, Poland, the Austro-Hungarian Empire — men and women of the liberal middle classes combined their demands for constitutionalism with national unification. These revolutions were known as revolution of the liberals.

Following were the ideas supported by liberals:

Political ideas:

• creation of a nation on parliamentary principles.
• a constitution.
• freedom of the press and freedom of association.

Social ideas:

• abolition of discrimination based on birth.
• abolition of serfdom and bonded labour.

Economic ideas:

• ease of trade.
• abolition of trade restriction and duties.