1. What exactly is nationalism and why did it grow as much as it did in the 19th century?

2. Is there a difference between patriotism and nationalism? Explain your answer with specific examples.

This site will give you a good overview of nationalism.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nationalism

There are a number of sites here on the differences between nationalism and patriotism.

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&ie=ISO-8859-1&q=nationalism+versus+patriotism&btnG=Search

Check these definitions.

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/nationalism

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/patriotism

We'll be glad to comment on your answers.

Nationalism is the love of one's country and the desire to be free from other countries

Patriotism love of country and willingness to sacrifice for it

They both mean the same!!!

Kara, you did not read those sites I gave you contrasting the two.

1. Nationalism refers to a strong sense of loyalty and devotion to one's own nation. It is an ideology that fosters the belief that a particular nation, which could be defined through shared culture, language, history, or territory, is unique and superior to others. Nationalism often leads to the desire for self-determination and the establishment of an independent nation-state for the people with a shared national identity.

In the 19th century, nationalism gained momentum due to several factors. Firstly, the decline of traditional social hierarchies, such as feudalism, allowed for the emergence of a middle class, which sought political representation and economic opportunities. Nationalism provided a platform for this middle class to demand self-governance and assert their influence.

Secondly, the spread of Enlightenment ideals, such as individual rights, democracy, and the value of the nation as a sovereign entity, played a major role in fostering nationalist sentiments. Intellectuals and philosophers of the time, like Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Johann Gottfried Herder, championed the idea of a nation as a cultural and political entity with a unique spirit and character.

Furthermore, the phenomenon of industrialization and the growth of urban centers created a sense of community and shared experiences among individuals who previously lived in dispersed rural settings. Common experiences and aspirations further fueled nationalist sentiments by highlighting the similarities and shared destinies of people belonging to the same nation.

Lastly, the rise of imperialism and colonization by European powers also contributed to the growth of nationalism. It created a sense of pride and desire for autonomy among colonized peoples, who sought to liberate themselves from foreign control and establish their own independent nation-states.

To understand the growth of nationalism in the 19th century, one can study historical events like the French Revolution, the unification of Germany and Italy, and the independence movements in Latin America as examples of how nationalism shaped political, social, and cultural changes during that era.

2. Patriotism and nationalism are related concepts, but they have different connotations and implications.

Patriotism refers to the love, loyalty, and devotion an individual has towards their own country. It involves pride in one's country, its values, traditions, and achievements. Patriotism can be seen as a positive form of attachment towards one's nation, often focusing on the positive aspects of the country and its contributions to society.

Nationalism, on the other hand, is a broader and more encompassing ideology. It not only involves love for one's country but also emphasizes the idea of a distinct national identity and, in some cases, can be seen as exclusive towards other nations. Nationalism can manifest in a sense of superiority, the desire for territorial expansion, and the belief that one's nation should be dominant or even imperialistic.

For example, someone who is patriotic might celebrate national holidays, respect national symbols, and support their country's sports teams. On the other hand, a nationalist might promote policies aimed at protecting national industries, advocating for strict immigration policies, or even expressing hostility towards other nations.

It's worth noting that the terms "patriotism" and "nationalism" can have different meanings and interpretations depending on the context and individual perspectives. These definitions are not set in stone and can vary across different cultures and periods of history.