The Divisive Aspect of Nationalism

Ethnocentric nationalism combined with expansionist nationalism resulting in the motivation of war and genocide during the 18th and 19th century. First and foremost, Nationalism was the primary cause of the First World War. This was a result of the misunderstanding that was created as nations struggled to secure their territories and space and to show superiority over their peers. Nationalism encouraged and facilitated the formation of fierce nationalist’s movements and revolutions, and this resulted in the unification of Italy and Germany in 1860. Belgium also acquired its independence and superiority as a result of nationalism during that time (Matthew 230). The invasion of Germany in Russia was geared by the Autarkic view that trading was insecure and Germany could only acquire the resources by attacking Russia through war.

In addition, nationalism caused political instability in Germany, and this resulted in poor economic effects to the country. Germany wanted to show its superiority over other countries,and this caused the administration of the country to pick fights most of the time. Severe wars were experienced,and citizens had to flee for their lives, leaving their businesses and jobs unattended and this resulted in a vast economic downfall of the country during the 18th and 19th century. Furthermore, an essay was written by Giuseppe Mazzini to address the workers who lived in England had a long-term effect on nationalism. Very many individuals lost their lives as a result of the idea of nationalism. Human beings have a habit of coming up with excuses to explain why certain things happened and this is what introduced nationalism in the world in ancient times.