Final answer:
The Congress of Vienna led to a peace that lasted nearly forty years by maintaining a balance of power, but also suppressed liberal ideas and provoked the growth of nationalism among European nations desiring self-determination.
Step-by-step explanation:
One important effect resulting from the political changes made at the Congress of Vienna was the establishment of a long period of peace in Europe. This came as a result of the concerted effort by the European powers to maintain a balance of power, often referred to as the Concert of Europe. However, this peace came at the expense of ignoring liberal ideas and the rise of nationalism. Countries such as Italy and Poland, which were carved up and controlled by foreign powers, saw increased desires for self-determination and independence. Over time, these nationalist feelings would challenge the conservative order established by the Congress of Vienna and contribute to the shaping of modern Europe.
The Congress aimed to return Europe to pre-Napoleonic days by restoring ancient monarchies and suppressing revolutionary principles such as liberalism and nationalism. But the ideology of national sovereignty, inspired by the Enlightenment and the French Revolution, continued to grow among the peoples of Europe, which eventually led to various nationalist movements.
The boundaries drawn by the Congress did not respect national identities, resulting in some nations being split among different powers while others were entirely under foreign control. This disregard for national identity contributed to the emergence of movements aiming to unify peoples under common cultural and linguistic identities.