Question

There were various factors that promoted the growth of Nationalism in India in the 19th century. Give the meaning of Nationalism in this context?

Answer 1

Hint: Nationalism refers to an ideology or a movement that promotes the interests of a particular nation with an aim of gaining and maintaining the nation’s sovereignty. Nationalism holds the view that each nation should govern itself and must be free from any outside interference.

Complete Answer:
The idea of nationalism emerged in the late eighteen century appearing first in Europe and then in North and South America and by the twentieth century, nationalism expanded to many Asian countries and to the newly independent nations of Africa. Nationalism also exemplifies an ideological movement by promoting the autonomy, unity, and sovereignty of those who have been granted in a single territory. A nation’s citizens are believed to be joined not by ethnicity but by a single public culture and a set of shared political goals.
Nationalism also signifies a feeling of oneness or belongingness that emerges when people living in a common region share the same historical, political, cultural background, speak the same language, have the same custom, and practice the same cultural values that consider them as one nation. Nationalism also seeks to preserve and foster a nation’s traditional cultures and cultural revivals have been associated with nationalist movements. It also encourages taking pride in national achievements and as a result, it is closely linked to patriotism.

Note: Nationalism therefore is a strong and a collective sentiment. While it promotes a sense of identity and unity among people, it also on the other hand leads to infringement of rights and conflict with others with regard to fear of someone taking control over them.