The increasing role of science in defining a worldview. The skepticism resulting from by a clearer understanding of the world and humanity’s place in it changed the way people thought of themselves and society. Charles Darwin’s (1809–1882) The Origin of the Species is one example of the new attitude.

The rise of European nationalism. Many areas of Europe (especially Italy and Central Europe) struggled to free themselves from foreign control. The years around 1850 saw many revolutions and attempts at revolutions. At the same time, Germany—never a fully unified country—struggled to create a separate national identity.

A growing autonomy for the arts. More and more, art was removed from functional roles and came to be appreciated for its aesthetic worth. The art of the past became increasingly revered, and our modern notions of the "artist" and of the "fine arts" were born.