This paper looks at the motives, meaning, and history of
nationalism. Religious, cultural, and ethnic differences are all
cited as factors contributing to
nationalist movements. Oppression and economic dissatisfaction are cited as factors, as well. The paper goes on to explain how the ruling party is always either the target or instigator of nationalist movements and that the concept of a nation within the concept of
nationalism is that the people within the nation have more common interests among themselves than with any other group outside the group of people forming the nation. The paper goes on to review several historical and modern-day nationalist movements and the negative and destructive consequences that such movements tend to have. Finally, the potential for more nationalist movements and what can be done to solve the conditions that bring about these movements is addressed.