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Nationalism can be defined as having a sense of belonging and loyalty to ones country or nation state. It is the belief that people derive their identity from their nation and therefore owe their nation their primary loyalty. Nationhood can include a common language, religion, political authority, as well as common traditions and shared history. Of all the European nations, France was the first to sport the idea of nationalism. Many countries became influenced by …

…growing and spreading throughout Europe, but early in the nineteenth century, people felt more local and regional loyalty rather than national loyalty. After several decades of propaganda however, this new ideology won more support and people soon began believing in dying for their country. This can be seen by the inspired and courageous efforts of fellow countrymen to battle for their nation's pride. Nationalism was no longer an idea, but rather a cause. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ **Bibliography**