Nationalism: GCSE Definition

What is Nationalism?

In GCSE History, nationalism is a social, political and economic belief that is held by a country, group or individual. People who believe in nationalism will put the interests of their country over other country’s interests or that of the international community. 

Nationalism usually creates a desire for a country to be politically and economically independent from other countries. Its politics will focus on promoting the country’s own interests above those of other countries. Socially, nationalism results in a high level of devotion and loyalty as well as a belief that their country is superior to others, this is known as patriotism.    

Nationalism is a common theme in history, especially during the rise of extremism or during a struggle for a country's independence. Here are some key examples: 

• American Revolution (1775-1783)

• French Revolution (1787-99)

• The unification of Italy (1861) 

• Serbian and German nationalism, leading to the outbreak of the First World War

• Nazi Germany (1933-1945)

• The end of the Eastern Bloc (1989-1990) 

Nationalism Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

Explore our revision notes for Edexcel GCSE, AQA GCSE and CIE IGCSE to see where Nationalism fits into the revision notes for those specifications

Why not use the Save My Exams flashcards and exam questions to revise Nationalism and related topics? 

GCSE History Revision Resources