Nationalism Essay

Since the 19th century, the world has experienced the birth of a phenomenon called nationalism. Nationalism can be defined as “loyalty and devotion to a nation; especially a sense of national consciousness exalting one nation above all other and placing primary emphasis on promotion of its culture and interest as opposed to those of other nations” (Merriam Webster). Nationalism states that a nation, defined by common cultural, ethnic, or historical elements, is inclined to establish an “independent political community based on shared history and common destiny” (Mastin, 2008). Shared history and common destinies are the collective fate of a nation, a belief in which nationalism is deeply rooted. During the 18th century, European and Asian states were composed of multiethnic empires and dynasties. These monarchies were very diverse ethnically, historically, and linguistically, leading to a weak national identity for those under their rule. As organized, more modern sub-states of a larger empire began to identify their collective fate along with their cultural, political, and ethnic unity, nationalism arose giving way to the creation of nation states. Both the American and French Revolution were a direct result of nationalism. In the 19th century, nationalism was a particularly strong force as it typically was the key element for the independence and national unification of many nations in Europe and North America. (The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed, 2012) Since the 19th century, nationalism and a strong national identity remain some of the most powerful political forces as seen in its postulation of World War I and II as well as the conflict currently unfolding in Ukraine. Where there is not unified identity, a governm...

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...rainian and Russian troops appear to be at a standoff. Putin, although occupying Crimea with troops does not intend on invading or annexing Ukraine because that would most certainly result in guerilla warfare and isolation from the Western world including Europe and the U.S. Instead, Putin seems to want a crippled Ukraine economically, politically and militarily.

Both the Crimean Crisis and the Euromaiden Revolution highlight the importance of a strong and unified national identity. In Crimea, there are Pro-Russian Ukrainians protesting for Crimean independence, while in cities like Kiev, Ukrainian nationalist (westerners) are protesting the current political leader(s) and their desire to join the E.U. In order to maintain a functioning state with a legitimate democracy, a thriving economy, and peace among its citizens there needs to be a strong national identity.