Nationalism

Nationalism is often stigmatized and misunderstood, especially when it comes to minority nationalism. Some people misguidedly associate all types of nationalism to national-socialism, tribalism, and racism.

On the contrary, the origins of modern nationalism in the 18th century point us to the humanist ideals of equality of men, freedom for all peoples, and peaceful relations among free States. In the context of a colonization by a foreign power, the nationalism of a conquered people can be and has often been supported by progressive and popular liberation movement, inspired by the greatest and most universal ideals. In the context of a territorial expansion or consolidation, the nationalism of a strong people can become and has often been akin to imperialism, inspired by sentiments that shame all of humanity.

We see a very clear distinction between nationalism, today a universal phenomenon, and the exploitation of a people's patriotic sentiment by political rulers who wish to keep themselves in power or gain more of it. Between the self-hatred of the colonized and the chauvinism and hatred of others of the colonizer, there is a balance: self-respect. Self-respect leads to self-confidence and openness to others. When a conquered nation seeks its independence, it is trying to attain this balance.

Can the rise to the status of independent nation not allow some members of that nation to abuse the power of the state and find themselves in a position to oppress minorities? Most definitely, as made obvious in the history of the relation between Québec and Great Britain and later Québec and Canada.

Nationalism when combined with despotic and oligarchic rule can be and has too often been disastrous for human beings, there is no denying this. That is why Québec nationalists, from the most conservative to the most progressive, have overwhelmingly rejected, and continue to reject, the use of violence as a means of attaining our national independence. Our most determined political adversaries cannot claim the same.

General

• History: Nationalism
• History: Imperialism
• Internet Modern History Sourcebook: Nationalism
• Croatian Nationalism (Excellent intro)
• The Nationalism Project
• The History of Nationalism
• Google Directory: Nationalism
• Nation Planet

Québec nationalism

1780s to 1900s

• Enlightenment & liberal patriotism and nationalism

1840s to 1950s

• Survivance nationalism
• Ideology of survivance

1950s to Now

• Questia: Selected Quebec Nationalism Resources
• Questia: French Canadians
• Quebec: a modern, pluralist, distinct society
• "Social Democrat" Nationalism
• The Evolving Parameters of Quebec Nationalism (PDF)
• Separatism and Sound in French Quebec

Canadian Nationalism

1950s to Now

• Questia: Canadian Politics
• Canadian Nationalism & anti-Americanism
• Pierre Elliot Trudeau & the demise of liberal Canadian nationalism
• The three nations of Canada may tear it apart
• Canadian Nationalism and the Struggle for Popular Sovereignty

See also

• Read books on nationalism