This paper investigates nationalism as a political and social philosophy in 20th century Europe, tracing its evolution from the decline of feudalism through the industrial age to its peak influence following World War I. The paper argues that nationalism served as a unifying force that fostered community identity, moral standards, and political participation among Europeans while simultaneously catalyzing the fall of communism and the democratization of Eastern Europe. However, the paper also examines nationalism's paradoxical role in creating international instability through unrestricted national sovereignty, which contributed to conflicts and anarchic conditions in the international system during and after the twentieth century.
Nationalism is a political and social philosophy in which the welfare of a nation or state as an entity is considered paramount. It represents a collective state of mind in which people are entitled to be loyal to the state. This often implies a belief in national superiority and the glorification of national virtues and values. Although nationalism is a relatively recent phenomenon, possibly emerging with the French Revolution, it has become enormously important in forming the bonds that hold nations together. In modern times, nationalism operates alongside legal structures and formal institutions in society, providing cohesiveness and justifying the existence of the modern state and nation.
Nationalism began penetrating Europe as far back as the late Middle Ages, with nation-states emerging after the feudal system declined. The spirit of nationalism became particularly pronounced during the nineteenth century, when widespread acceptance of common languages, shared loyalties, scientific advancement, and industrialization gave nations their distinct identities. These forces transformed nationalism into a successful unifying concept across Europe during this transformative era.
The twentieth century saw nationalism reach new heights of influence. The early twentieth century witnessed the breakup of the Austria-Hungary and Ottoman empires, which led to the establishment of many independent nations through peace treaties following World War I. By the 1990s, as nationalism grew more extreme with the breaking apart of the Soviet Empire, the growth of Muslim fundamentalism, and the collapse of Yugoslavia, it became clear that nationalism remained a dominant force in shaping European identity and politics.
Throughout the twentieth century, nationalism served as a dominant bond among European peoples. It provided Europeans with a profound sense of community and belonging, creating what sociologists call a collective identity. Beyond mere sentiment, nationalism fostered a sense of tradition within European societies and instilled a set of moral standards that guided people's behavior and ethical conduct.
Nationalism also motivated Europeans to engage actively in political life. Citizens participated in politics and leadership with a focus on uplifting their nation among other emerging nations and justifying their political systems to the international community. This political engagement, driven by national pride and identity, became a defining feature of twentieth-century European civic life.
One of nationalism's most significant contributions to twentieth-century Europe was its role in establishing and spreading democracy. Nationalism served as a catalyst for the rejection and ultimate fall of communism, enabling the rapid democratization of Eastern European nations. After the collapse of communist regimes, nationalism became a pushing force behind positive post-communist movements, including the triumph of civil society over totalitarianism and the advancement of political inclusion over ethnic exclusion (Matic D., 1999).
The connection between national identity and democratic governance proved particularly powerful in formerly communist states, where the desire for national self-determination aligned with aspirations for democratic participation and individual freedom.
Nationalism in the twentieth century and to the present day continues to change character, presenting a fundamental paradox. A world divided into nations means that each nation is sovereign. The existence of unrestricted national sovereignty creates an enduring possibility of conflicts among nations. Without an international authority capable of intervening in disputes, the twentieth century increasingly resembled a condition of international anarchy. This sovereignty-based system became increasingly dangerous as the nation-state itself evolved, creating tensions between national self-interest and international stability that persist today.
"Paradox of sovereignty and potential for interstate conflict"
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