Ethnic nationalism

Definition

Ethnic nationalism is a form of nationalism that emphasizes the shared heritage, culture, language, and ethnicity of a specific group as the basis for national identity and political sovereignty. This concept often arises in multi-ethnic states where different ethnic groups seek self-determination and recognition, leading to tensions in nation-building efforts, particularly in regions with diverse populations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ethnic nationalism often led to the formation of new nation-states in the 20th century as various ethnic groups sought independence from colonial or imperial rule.
2. In Turkey, ethnic nationalism was promoted by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk as part of his reforms to create a unified national identity, sidelining ethnic minorities like Kurds and Armenians.
3. Iran's nation-building efforts under the Pahlavi dynasty also emphasized Persian nationalism, which often marginalized ethnic groups such as Azeris and Kurds.
4. In the Arab states, ethnic nationalism emerged as a reaction to colonial rule, with various groups seeking to assert their identity and autonomy against foreign powers.
5. The conflicts in regions like the Balkans and the Middle East during the late 20th century were significantly influenced by ethnic nationalist movements that sought independence or greater autonomy for specific ethnic groups.

Review Questions

• How did ethnic nationalism influence the formation of new nation-states in the Middle East during the 20th century?
  • Ethnic nationalism significantly influenced the formation of new nation-states in the Middle East as various ethnic groups sought self-determination following the decline of empires and colonial rule. Groups such as Arabs, Kurds, and Turks mobilized around their ethnic identities to demand independence and political recognition. This movement often resulted in the redrawing of borders and the establishment of nations that prioritized ethnic identity over diverse populations, leading to tensions and conflicts.
• Discuss how Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's policies reflected ethnic nationalism in Turkey and their impact on minority communities.
  • Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's policies in Turkey strongly reflected ethnic nationalism by promoting a cohesive Turkish identity while downplaying or suppressing minority identities such as those of Kurds and Armenians. His reforms aimed at modernizing Turkey included language reform and cultural homogenization, which often alienated these communities. The emphasis on a singular national identity contributed to tensions between the Turkish state and its ethnic minorities, influencing social dynamics and political discourse in the region.
• Evaluate the role of ethnic nationalism in shaping conflicts within multi-ethnic states like Iran and its impact on regional stability.
  • Ethnic nationalism played a crucial role in shaping conflicts within multi-ethnic states like Iran by fostering divisions among various ethnic groups such as Persians, Azeris, and Kurds. The Pahlavi regime's focus on Persian nationalism marginalized these groups, leading to demands for greater autonomy and recognition. This situation has contributed to ongoing unrest and resistance against central authority, which undermines regional stability as it creates power vacuums that can be exploited by external actors or rival factions within Iran.

Related terms

Civic Nationalism: A form of nationalism that defines the nation based on shared citizenship and political values, rather than ethnic or cultural identity.

Self-Determination: The principle that groups have the right to determine their own political status and govern themselves without external interference.

Nation-State: A political entity characterized by a defined territory, permanent population, a government, and recognition by other states, typically associated with a single national identity.