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One of Croce's most famous books, originally published in 1934, this volume covers the history of Europe from the end of the Napoleonic Wars until the end of the First World War. Based on a series of lectures delivered in 1931 the book discusses, among other things, religious freedoms, the concept of liberty, liberalism and nationalism and the rise of the German state.
List of contents
1. The Religion of Liberty 2. Opposing Religious Faiths 3. The Romantic Movement 4. Resistance and Opposition to Absolutism and the Victory Over It (1815-30) 5. Progress of the Liberal Movement: First Conflicts with Social Democracy (1830-47) 6. Liberal-National Revolutions, Democratic-Social Revolutions, and Reactions (1848-51) 7. The Revolutionary Revival and the General-Liberal Nationalisation of Europe (1851-70) 8. The Unification of German Power and the Change in the Public Spirit of Europe (1870) 9. The Liberal Age (1871-1914) 10. International Politics, Activism and the World War (1871-1914). Epilogue.
About the author
Benedetto Croce was an Italian philosopher, historian, and politician born on February 25, 1866, in Pescasseroli, Italy. Renowned for his work in philosophy, historiography, and aesthetics, Croce was a key figure in the development of idealism and made significant contributions to the philosophy of history. He believed that historical knowledge is shaped by contemporary thought and that history is not merely the recounting of past events but an ongoing process of interpretation. Croce's political views were rooted in liberalism, and he formulated a distinction between liberalism and "liberism," emphasizing individual liberty and democratic values. His works span various fields, influencing both intellectual thought and political discourse in Italy and beyond. Croce was influenced by figures such as Giovanni Gentile and Karl Marx, though he diverged in his approach to philosophy and politics. He had a notable family life, being married to Adele Rossi in 1914 and fathering several children, including Lidia Croce and Alda Croce. Croce passed away on November 20, 1952, in Naples, Italy, leaving behind a legacy as a prominent philosopher and historian who shaped 20th-century thought.
Summary
One of Croce’s most famous books, originally published in 1934, this volume covers the history of Europe from the end of the Napoleonic Wars until the end of the First World War. Based on a series of lectures delivered in 1931 the book discusses, among other things, religious freedoms, the concept of liberty, liberalism and nationalism and the rise of the German state.
