The nineteenth century was characterized by a remarkable spread of culture through the fight against illiteracy, the compulsory education of primary education and the multiplication of newspapers and magazines. The University is once again the centre of culture and this is especially visible in France and Germany.
Kantian philosophy generated a remarkable philosophical renaissance in Germany, although strictly speaking, it would not be appropriate to explain German idealism through a development of the doctrine of Kant. One of the important factors in this regard is the German concern for unity and freedom in the face of foreigners, a feeling aroused by the defeat against Napoleon, which consecrated a secular political dismemberment. Germany was socially and economically backward compared to England and France, with almost feudal structures. There is also the emergence of nationalist movements, especially student associations.