Nationalism

Definition

Nationalism is a political ideology that emphasizes the interests, culture, and identity of a particular nation or group of people, often prioritizing national unity and independence. This sentiment can drive a sense of pride among citizens and influence political decisions, as seen during periods of conflict and social change. It can lead to the desire for self-governance, the unification of culturally similar groups, or the resistance against perceived external threats.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The War of 1812 saw the rise of American nationalism, particularly after victories against British forces, leading to a surge in national pride and unity.
2. Following the War of 1812, the Era of Good Feelings was characterized by a decline in partisan conflict and a growing sense of American identity and purpose.
3. In the late 20th century, nationalism played a critical role in the collapse of the Soviet Union as various republics sought independence based on ethnic and cultural identities.
4. Nationalism can sometimes lead to conflict when groups seek independence or autonomy from larger states, which was evident during the disintegration of Yugoslavia in the 1990s.
5. In both historical contexts, nationalism influenced foreign policy decisions as nations prioritized their interests and identity over international considerations.

Review Questions

• How did nationalism manifest during the War of 1812, and what were its effects on American society?
  • Nationalism during the War of 1812 manifested through widespread support for the war effort against Britain, creating a strong sense of national identity. Citizens rallied behind military leaders like Andrew Jackson and celebrated victories such as the Battle of New Orleans. This increased national pride contributed to a sense of unity among Americans, reinforcing the idea of a distinct American identity separate from British influence.
• In what ways did nationalism influence the political landscape during the Era of Good Feelings?
  • During the Era of Good Feelings, nationalism shaped the political landscape by fostering a sense of unity that transcended party lines. With the decline of Federalist opposition following the War of 1812, many Americans embraced policies that promoted national growth and infrastructure development. This period saw increased investments in roads, canals, and other public works that reflected a collective desire for progress and a strong national economy.
• Evaluate how nationalist movements contributed to the collapse of the Soviet Union in the late 20th century.
  • Nationalist movements played a crucial role in the collapse of the Soviet Union by highlighting ethnic tensions and cultural identities within its diverse republics. As central authority weakened in the 1980s due to political reforms like glasnost and perestroika, various ethnic groups began asserting their right to self-determination. This led to declarations of independence from republics such as Ukraine and the Baltic states, ultimately undermining Soviet unity and resulting in its dissolution in 1991.

Related terms

Patriotism: A feeling of pride in and devotion to one's country, often associated with loyalty and support for its government and policies.

Self-Determination: The principle that a group of people has the right to determine their own political status and governance, commonly linked to nationalist movements.

Civic Nationalism: A form of nationalism that emphasizes citizenship and shared values as the basis for national identity, rather than ethnicity or cultural heritage.