Nationalism as an Ideology

Review Definition The strong belief that the interests of a particular nation-state are of primary importance. Loyalty and devotion to a nation Exalting one nation above all others and placing primary emphasis on promotion of its culture and interests as opposed to those of other nations.

Ideal Force Nationalism has been the ideal force in the political, cultural and economic life in Western Europe and the Western hemisphere since the outbreak of the French Revolution (18th Century).

A universal ideology Due to its spread throughout the Western Hemisphere, nationalism is considered one of the first universal ideologies/motivating forces to organize all peoples into a nation-state. Organizing all people, regardless of their religious, traditional, socio- economic, cultural background into one single entity.

Changing the World Through Nationalism our world has been reshaped to the way we see it today, which to a certain extent is still taking place. French Revolution Napoleonic Wars Industrial Revolution Imperialism American Revolution/American Civil War Unification of the Italian States German Unification Causes of WWI & WWII Hitler’s Agenda Events of 9/11 Rwanda Genocide

What is the ‘actual business of Nationalism?’ (there are three) Crash Course As you watch the film, explain how historians believe nations/nationalism is developed. What is the ‘actual business of Nationalism?’ (there are three) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nosq94oCl_M Organic process that involves culturally similar people wanting to formulize their connection, constructed by government building a sense of patriotism, education process allowing sharing their national narratives, outgrowth of industrialization and urbanization (wanting to see themselves as part of the nation). 2. Create a bureaucracy, new systems of education, building a large military. (4:13)

Pros & Cons of Nationalism

Pro: It develops the infrastructure of the nation A strong sense of nationalism will provide the necessary programs and good-paying jobs for the nation. Caring for what is yours – national pride. National pride means caring for what is yours. When there is a strong sense of nationalism, then there are programs in place to care for roads, bridges, and other needed infrastructure items. This also means good-paying jobs are generally created to build these needed items. Looks to provide opportunities for all individuals.

Pro: It inspires people to succeed It presents the opportunity that someone can come from anywhere, pursue their own version of happiness and achieve what they want to achieve in life. The American Dream is an example of nationalism. People are inspired to succeed because of their desire to be independent.

Pro: Gives a nation a position of strength Allows a nation to be strong, giving them opportunity to be a part of the world community and global negotiating power. Provides opportunity for a nation to overcome their differences for the common good. Provides healthy competition which can spur on scientific and technological advances. Cold War – U.S. & Russia and the Space Race

Con: Can lead to separation & loneliness Nationalism often causes a country to often become independent, which can lead to separation for the rest of the world. This often reflects the nations policies and governing force. Treaties & trades may be difficult.

Con: Can lead to socio-economic cliques Can lead to people separating themselves based on labels they create on their own. Could create assimilation of minority cultures. Can be based on wealth, religion or ethnicity. Ethnic Cleansing

Con: Can lead to war When ideals/values clash between nations it can cause war within the nation but also with other nations.