Understanding Nationalism: History, Identity, and Its Role in Modern States

TL;DR:
Nationalism is more than pride—it’s power. This guide traces its history from early empires to modern movements, showing how identity, culture, and politics intertwine. Nationalism can build nations or break them apart, depending on whether it’s guided by unity or exclusion. Understanding it means understanding the modern world.

Introduction: Why Nationalism Still Matters

The first time I heard the word “nationalism,” I was sitting in a crowded classroom in Malakal, listening to a teacher explain why South Sudanese people were demanding independence. To me, nationalism wasn’t a theory in a textbook—it was the sound of gunfire at night, the sight of flags raised high at rallies, and the burning hope that one day my country would stand free.

Nationalism is one of those words that inspires both pride and fear. It can unite a people under one banner or tear a nation apart along tribal lines. It has fueled revolutions, wars, and independence movements, but it has also built schools, hospitals, and constitutions. To understand nationalism is to understand the soul of modern states—including our fragile South Sudan.

FAQs

1. What is nationalism?

It’s a belief system that emphasizes loyalty and devotion to one’s nation, often linking identity and destiny to a shared history and culture.

2. How did nationalism begin?

It emerged in Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries, fueled by revolutions, industrialization, and the desire for self-rule among diverse peoples.

3. Why is nationalism powerful today?

Because it shapes politics, borders, and belonging. It can inspire independence—or fuel division—depending on how it’s expressed.

4. What’s the difference between nationalism and patriotism?

Patriotism loves one’s country; nationalism often seeks dominance or exclusivity. The former unites, while the latter can sometimes divide.

5. How can modern nations balance nationalism?

By promoting inclusive identity—valuing diversity while protecting shared values. Healthy nationalism builds community, not hostility.

What Is Nationalism?

At its simplest, nationalism is loyalty and devotion to one’s nation. But “nation” itself is a slippery word. Is it defined by geography, ethnicity, language, or shared history? Ask three people, and you’ll get four answers.

Some define nationalism as the belief that a people with common identity deserve self-governance. Others see it as an emotional attachment—a feeling that makes us cheer when our football team wins or cry when the national anthem is played.

When South Sudan raised its flag in 2011, nationalism was alive in every street. But when divisions deepened along ethnic lines, the same nationalism turned sour. That’s the paradox: it can be medicine or poison, depending on how it’s used.

A Brief History of Nationalism

Nationalism is not new. It’s been around for centuries, shaping empires and rebellions alike.

• Europe: Nationalism grew in the 18th and 19th centuries, fueling independence movements in Italy, Germany, and beyond.
• Africa: Colonial borders lumped together different peoples. Nationalism became the fire that fueled independence movements across the continent. Leaders like Kwame Nkrumah, Jomo Kenyatta, and Julius Nyerere preached unity while fighting colonialism.
• South Sudan: Our own nationalism was born out of struggle against marginalization. It was unity in suffering that gave us independence, but it’s division in politics that still threatens that hard-won freedom.

Nationalism vs. Tribalism in South Sudan

When I was a boy, I knew myself as Nuer or Dinka before I thought of myself as “South Sudanese.” That’s the challenge nationalism faces in our country—tribal identity often overshadows national identity.

Nationalism says, “We are one people.” Tribalism whispers, “We are different.” In times of peace, nationalism wins. In times of conflict, tribalism takes the microphone.

The question we face is this: can we build a nationalism that celebrates diversity without falling into division?

Positive and Negative Faces of Nationalism

Like fire, nationalism can warm or burn.

Positive nationalism:

• Inspires unity and pride.
• Mobilizes people for development projects.
• Protects sovereignty and self-determination.

Negative nationalism:

• Fuels xenophobia and hatred of outsiders.
• Divides people within a nation.
• Justifies violence in the name of “loyalty.”

I once saw young men fight simply because one accused the other of not being “loyal” to his tribe. That wasn’t nationalism—it was tribal arrogance wearing nationalism’s mask.

Global Lessons: What Other Nations Teach Us

• Germany & Italy – United through nationalism, but later abused by dictators.
• India – Used nationalism to gain independence, then struggled with regional and religious divides.
• Rwanda – Negative nationalism fueled genocide, but today they promote a national identity that says, “We are all Rwandans.”

These lessons show us that nationalism can be transformed. It’s not fixed—it evolves.

Nationalism in a Globalized World

Today, globalization challenges nationalism. People migrate, cultures mix, and identities blur. Young South Sudanese may feel as connected to Nairobi or Cairo as to Juba.

So, is nationalism outdated? I don’t think so. It’s being reshaped. In fact, global citizens still carry passports. Nations still matter. The real challenge is building a nationalism that coexists with global belonging.

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Building a Healthy National Spirit

I often ask: what does it mean to be South Sudanese? Is it just surviving war together, or can it be building a shared dream of peace, education, and prosperity?

For nationalism to heal instead of harm, it must:

• Embrace diversity: Celebrate tribes as part of one nation, not rivals.
• Promote common good: Roads, schools, hospitals for all, not just for “our people.”
• Teach shared history: Let children know we fought together, not against each other.
• Inspire service: Nationalism must be about contribution, not entitlement.

Conclusion: Nationalism as a Choice

My strongest memory of nationalism was the day our flag rose in 2011. I felt proud, hopeful, and tearful. But today, I also feel cautious. Because nationalism alone is not enough. Without justice, equality, and wisdom, it can quickly become destructive.

Nationalism is not a slogan on a flag. It is a daily choice—to think beyond tribe, to work beyond self, and to dream beyond today. It is not about where we come from but where we are going together.

If nationalism is the heartbeat of a nation, then South Sudan must learn to keep its heart steady, not racing with anger or stopping with despair. Only then can nationalism be the medicine that heals, not the poison that divides.