The Role Of Nationalism Became A Huge Thing During The Inter

The Role Of Nationalism Became A Huge Thing During the Interwar Period

The role of nationalism became a significant and defining feature during the interwar period due to the rising desire for independence among many nations' citizens. This era, characterized by a reevaluation of national identities, was influenced by a period of “deglobalization,” in which economic nationalism took precedence, emphasizing self-sufficiency and protectionism (Shubert & Goldstein, 2012). Governments responded to economic and social concerns—such as famine and resource scarcity—by implementing tariffs and restricting exports to safeguard their own populations. During this period, nationalism was rooted in the belief that individuals' primary allegiance should be to their nation, which they considered to be defined by unique characteristics, shared history, and cultural attributes (Shubert & Goldstein, 2012).

According to The Nationalism Project and scholars like Handler and Breuilly, nationalism is an ideology centered on the concept of individuals being defined through their membership in a nation. It emphasizes boundedness, homogeneity, and continuity within the national community, even amidst diversity. A true nationalist, as outlined by Breuilly, would assert that a nation possesses a distinct character; that the interests and values of the nation must take precedence over all others; and that the nation should strive for maximum independence (The Nationalism Project, Breuilly). These principles underscored the political climate of the interwar period, shaping policies and societal attitudes.

During the interwar years, the acceptance or suppression of nationalist sentiments varied across countries. In Allied nations, nationalism was largely accepted and integrated into political discourse. Conversely, in Axis countries like Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy, nationalism was often deemed dangerous or subversive, and nationalist ideologies could lead to severe punishment and persecution. Ernest Gellner emphasized that for an individual to be a nationalist, they must share a common culture with their compatriots, including shared ideas, behaviors, and communication practices. Moreover, recognition of each other as members of the same nation was essential (Gellner, 1983).

The concept of nationalism, however, is complex and subject to much debate. Scholars have differing views on whether nationalism is inherently positive or negative, with some viewing it as a unifying force that fosters national pride and others as a source of conflict and division. The definition of nationalism varies, but it can be broadly described as a collective identity based on a nexus of objective relationships—such as economic, political, linguistic, cultural, religious, geographical, and historical—and how these are subjectively reflected in the collective consciousness of a group (Miroslav, 2002). This multifaceted understanding highlights how nationalism during the interwar period was not only about patriotic sentiment but also deeply intertwined with social, political, and cultural dynamics that shaped the course of history.

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The interwar period, spanning from the end of World War I in 1918 to the onset of World War II in 1939, was marked by the profound influence and proliferation of nationalism across the globe. This era was characterized by a resurgence in national identities, driven by the collapse of empires, the desire for self-determination, and economic upheavals. The surge in nationalist sentiments had far-reaching implications, molding political doctrines, fueling conflicts, and redefining international relations.

One of the primary catalysts for heightened nationalism during this period was the disintegration of multinational empires such as Austro-Hungary, Ottoman, and Russian Empires. As these empires crumbled, new nation-states emerged, often based on ethnic or linguistic lines. The Treaty of Versailles in 1919, which formalized the end of World War I, played a significant role in fostering nationalist sentiments. It created new borders, often ignoring historical and cultural contexts, thereby leading to heightened sentiments of grievance and a desire for sovereignty among different ethnic groups. Leaders and citizens alike saw independence and self-governance as essential to restoring dignity and national pride, especially after the humiliation associated with wartime defeat and the oppressive peace treaties (MacMillan, 2001).

Economically, the period was characterized by “deglobalization,” where countries prioritized self-sufficiency and protectionist policies. Governments imposed tariffs, restricted exports, and sought to insulate their economies from global shocks. These policies not only aimed to protect domestic industries but also heightened national pride by emphasizing economic independence. For example, the United States adopted policies that limited immigration and prioritized domestic economic growth, reinforcing a sense of national identity rooted in economic self-reliance (Shubert & Goldstein, 2012).

Nationalism during the interwar period was also deeply connected to cultural and ideological elements. The concept of the nation as a homogeneous community was often idealized—emphasizing shared language, ethnicity, and history as the foundation of national identity (Handler, 1994). This led to policies aimed at cultural consolidation and suppression of minority groups, especially in fascist regimes. Nazi Germany, for example, promoted an aggressive form of nationalism based on racial purity and nationalism as a unifying force for the Aryan race, which justified expansionist policies and atrocities, culminating in the Holocaust (Kershaw, 2000). Similarly, fascist Italy under Mussolini imperialized territories, promoting a nationalist narrative of restoring the glory of ancient Rome.

In contrast, many Allied countries adopted a more inclusive form of nationalism, emphasizing patriotism and national unity without overt ethnic exclusions. However, even in these nations, nationalist sentiments could foster xenophobia and exclusion, especially when economic problems or political instability arose. The debate over the moral and political implications of nationalism was intense; scholars like Gellner argued that nationalism is a cultural phenomenon rooted in shared language and recognition, while others warned that unchecked nationalism could lead to conflict and violence (Gellner, 1983).

Thus, during the interwar years, nationalism manifested in various forms—sometimes as a unifying force, sometimes as a tool of authoritarian regimes seeking to consolidate power. The complex interplay of cultural, political, and economic factors contributed to a period of intense nationalist activity that significantly impacted world history. The rise of fascist regimes, the redrawing of borders, and the ideological battles of the era underscore the profound influence of nationalism in shaping the interwar geopolitical landscape.

In conclusion, the interwar period's nationalism was multifaceted and tumultuous. It was driven by a combination of economic independence pursuits, cultural identity reinforcement, and political power consolidation. While nationalism inspired many nations' struggles for independence and identity, it also facilitated the rise of aggressive regimes that led to global conflict. Understanding the dual nature of nationalism during this period is crucial for comprehending the causes and consequences of the conflicts that culminated in World War II.

References

• Gellner, E. (1983). Nations and Nationalism. Cornell University Press.
• Kershaw, I. (2000). The Nazi Dictatorship: Problems and Perspectives of Interpretation. Arnold.
• Handler, R. (1994). The Nationalism Project. University of South Carolina Press.
• MacMillan, M. (2001). Peacemakers: The Paris Conference of 1919 and Its Aftermath. John Wiley & Sons.
• Miroslav, H. (2002). The Concept of Nationalism. The Nationalism Project.
• Shubert, A., & Goldstein, R. J. (2012). Twentieth-century Europe. The Nationalism Project.