
19th-century nationalism
Nineteenth-century nationalism was a movement emphasizing pride in and loyalty to one’s nation or cultural group. It emerged as countries and regions sought to define their identities, often inspired by shared language, history, and customs. This sense of unity motivated efforts to gain independence, unify fragmented territories, or preserve cultural traditions. While it fostered nation-building and independence movements, it also sometimes led to conflict, exclusion, or imperialism, as groups prioritized their own identity over others. Overall, 19th-century nationalism reshaped political maps and global relations, fostering a strong sense of collective identity within nations.