What is nationalism?

Nationalism is the belief that a nation, a people sharing an identity, culture or history, should govern itself. Its interests should come first. It can drive independence movements or national pride. In the UK, nationalism takes several forms, including British, English, Scottish, Welsh and Irish nationalism.

Modern nationalism grew in the 18th and 19th centuries, alongside the French Revolution and the rise of nation states. It helped unify countries such as Italy and Germany, and later inspired colonies to win independence. Nationalism can be civic, based on shared values and citizenship, or ethnic, based on ancestry, language or religion. In practice most movements mix both elements.

In the UK, the Scottish National Party seeks independence for Scotland, and Plaid Cymru seeks independence for Wales. Irish nationalists in Northern Ireland seek a united Ireland, while unionists want to stay in the UK. British nationalism played a part in the vote to leave the European Union in 2016. Debates about English identity have also grown. Brexit also deepened debate.

Supporters see nationalism as a source of solidarity, self-government and democracy. Critics warn that it can turn into hostility to outsiders, and point to its role in wars in the 20th century. Most mainstream nationalist parties in the UK today describe themselves as civic, open to anyone who chooses to live in the nation. Others see danger in any nationalism.

Where you've seen it

Independence movements after empire, Irish independence in the 1920s, the unification of Italy and Germany in the 1800s, and the far darker ethnic nationalism of 1930s Europe.

In the UK today

Seen in Scottish and Welsh independence movements (which mostly describe themselves as civic), Irish nationalism and unionism in Northern Ireland, and British national identity debates.