I would say that the "first domino to fall" was the French Revolution. Its aim was to replace the French Monarchy. In this time period, those who supported the monarchy were considered 'conservative' where as those who favored the republic (which was to replace the monarchy) were considered 'liberals'. Unfortunately, the French Republic gave way to a guy named Napoleon who said fuck all that, I'm finna take Europe and be Emperor. Well... he failed in doing such deeds and again the French clamored for a republic, and this is where Germany comes into play. Napoleon was successful in destroying the Holy Roman Empire, which was not Holy, or Roman, or and Empire. It, instead, was a collection of principalities with their own kings and armies. Enter Otto von Bismarck. He was from Prussia, whichwas the most powerful and military capable 'kingdom'. Prussians spoke the German language and they were the largest of the Germanic principalities/kingdoms. Otto von Bismarck is the man credited with unifying Germany. He was a strict conservative of the day. His aim was to build an empire in the heart of Europe that could defend itself from another liberal revolution. In his system, he was able to politician the shit out of the German government by still having a King, but would also have a parliament/congress called the Reichstag which satisfied the growing liberal presence in Germany. Really a genius move. Bismarck also stressed the importance of a unified "GERMANY" and believed that a unified Germany would be a force to be reckoned with. Hope this helps :)