To summarize Metternich's importance in Europe, it is appropriate to state that, on a global scale, Metternich made significant contributions to containing the spread of revolutionary ideas in Europe and maintaining European peace by holding congresses, preventing French upheaval, and containing Russian ambition, and... ... he also played a role in the formation of many countries in Europe. For example, he helped form modern-day Austria, Italy, and Switzerland. However, his main contribution to Europe was his work for stability within the continent. Metternich's influence on Europe can be seen in the fact that his ideas on keeping peace among nations with different ideologies continue to play a role today. For example, his idea of having conferences to discuss issues between countries has become common practice at the United Nations. Additionally, his methods for containing revolution and maintaining order as well as his understanding of how national interests affect policy decisions are still used today by world leaders who want to avoid conflict or instability within their borders. Metternich's influence on world politics is evident from the fact that members of several royal families throughout Europe were married into other royal families through treaties arranged by Metternich. For example, King Ludwig II of Bavaria was married to Marie von Anhalt-Zerbst. This marriage added strength to the relationship between Bavaria and Prussia - two of the most powerful states in Germany at the time.