What was the main purpose of the Congress of Vienna?

The main purpose of the Congress of Vienna was to restore stability and order in Europe after the upheaval caused by the Napoleonic Wars. Following the defeat of Napoleon in 1815, European leaders convened to redraw the continent's political map and establish a balance of power that would prevent future conflicts. The congress aimed to reinstate the territorial and political boundaries that had existed before the wars and to contain revolutionary ideas that had spread during Napoleon's conquests. By fostering cooperation among the major powers—such as Austria, Prussia, Russia, and Great Britain—the Congress sought to create a framework for peaceful coexistence and stability in Europe, which was viewed as essential for maintaining order in the post-war environment.

The other options suggest motivations or goals that were not central to the Congress of Vienna. Global trade networks and expansion of colonial territories were not the focus at this gathering, as the priority was on European continental politics. Additionally, while the Congress might have indirectly affected the broader themes of democracy and liberalism, these were not the primary objectives of the negotiators, who were more concerned with reinstating conservative regimes and maintaining the status quo.