Nationalism
An ideology that promotes the interests of a nation with the aim of gaining and maintaining sovereignty over its homeland
Real World Example
During the French Revolution and the time of Napoleon, nationalism emerged as a powerful force that united the French people in their desire for self-determination and independence from monarchies. It responded to the problems of inequality, oppression, and foreign domination, encouraging citizens to see themselves as part of a single, sovereign nation. This sense of unity helped the French overthrow their king and later, under Napoleon, spread revolutionary ideas across Europe. Today, nationalism still matters as it influences how people identify with their country and can drive political decisions, like voting in elections or supporting policies. For example, during the Olympics, people often feel a sense of pride and connection to their country, cheering for athletes who represent their nation on the world stage.
