Understanding Nationalism in IB History
In IB History, nationalism is defined as the belief that people who share a common identity — such as language, culture, or history — should unite under their own government or nation-state.
Nationalism emerged as one of the most powerful political ideologies of the 19th and 20th centuries, driving movements for unification, independence, and revolution. IB students study nationalism in topics such as “Causes and Effects of Nationalist Movements,” “Nation-State Formation,” and “20th-Century Wars.”
Origins of Nationalism | IB Historical Context
Nationalism developed during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, influenced by the Enlightenment and revolutionary ideals of liberty and self-determination.
Key Historical Influences
The French Revolution (1789):
- Introduced the idea that sovereignty belongs to the people, not monarchs.
- Encouraged citizens to identify with a shared national identity.
Napoleonic Wars (1803–1815):
- Spread revolutionary ideas across Europe but also provoked nationalist resistance.
Industrialization and modernization:
- Improved communication and literacy, helping people form shared cultural identities.
These developments set the stage for nationalist movements that reshaped Europe and the wider world.
Core Ideas of Nationalism | IB Political Ideology Focus
Nationalism rests on several key principles that students should understand and evaluate in essays:
- Shared culture, language, history, or ethnicity.
