Nationalism in the Balkans

Nationalism in the Balkans is a strong sense of pride and loyalty to one's own nation or ethnicity, often rooted in the desire for independence or sovereignty. Historically, it fueled calls for self-determination among diverse groups in a region marked by complex borders and overlapping identities. This heightened ethnic awareness sometimes led to tension, conflict, and competition among nations, especially during the 19th and 20th centuries. While nationalism can promote cultural preservation and unity, in the Balkans it also contributed to political instability and violence, as groups sought to define and defend their national interests in a fragile, multi-ethnic environment.