A major factor that contributed to the rise of nationalism in 19th-century Europe was the influence of Romanticism, which emphasized cultural identity, heritage, and the importance of a shared language and history. The period was marked by the decline of empires and the rise of nation-states, as people sought to establish a collective identity tied to their nation. The Industrial Revolution further fueled nationalism by fostering economic interdependence and social mobility. Additionally, revolutions and movements for independence in various regions inspired the belief that people should govern themselves, leading to the assertion of national identities across Europe.