The revolution of 1848 encompassed many European countries. The revolutions that swept Europe included Germany, Italy and France, excluding Russia and England. Many historians refer to the year 1848 as "the year of revolutions", due to the way in which the revolts spread throughout Europe. The question is which political groups had influence behind this revolution and what were the causes. The revolution united many diverse groups of people; they were able to put aside their differences to move forward towards the greater good of society as a whole. Perhaps the revolution was about basic human survival, having access to adequate food, shelter and the basic necessities of life; and political upheaval to bring about changes in government. (“Revolutions of 1848”) The revolution of 1848 in Germany was fueled by the ideas of liberalism. These ideas were a direct derivative of Enlightenment ideas, such as the rights and security of constitutional rights to which the people were entitled. Germany was a socialist country at that time. The working class sought to gain more power, thereby strengthening the class as a whole, and to have greater governmental influence over decisions made. (“The Revolution of 1848”). The aristocracy had a lot of apprehension on this issue, in the sense of job security. Nationalism played an important role in the revolution, through the idea of ​​unity. A new conservative movement composed of liberals and nationalists gained powerful momentum but quickly faded. The working class played a key role in the revolution, as they made up the majority of the population. This class would be the decisive factor in the outcome of a revolution depending on its willingness to participate. Middle of paper ...... for a change for the good of the country. The class division vying for governmental influence has not always had self-preservation as its sole aim. In the case of the bourgeoisie and aristocracy, they simply wanted to impose themselves and maintain power. While the working class suffered, the richest and most powerful bourgeoisie and aristocracy feared that the working class would overtake them, because there truly is power in numbers. (“The Revolution of 1848”) Works Cited “Revolutions of 1848”. February 19, 2011. “The Revolution of 1848”. February 19, 2010. “The revolutions of 1848: in Germany, Italy and France”. February 21 2011. .