A critical factor that fueled the rise of nationalism in Europe during the 19th century was the spread of Romanticism, which emphasized national identity, culture, and heritage. As people embraced Romantic ideals, they began to view their nation as a distinct community deserving of a sovereign state. This cultural awakening inspired a sense of pride in shared language, traditions, and history, which fueled nationalist movements across Europe. Additionally, the decline of empires, such as the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian Empires, created power vacuums that encouraged national groups to assert their identities and seek independence. The culmination of these factors significantly reshaped the political landscape of Europe.