Nationalism is an ideology and political movement centered on loyalty, devotion, or allegiance to a nation or nation-state, often prioritizing these obligations above other individual or group interests

. It holds that each nation should govern itself independently, free from external interference, and that the nation is the rightful source of political power

. Nationalism seeks to build and maintain a shared national identity based on common culture, language, history, ethnicity, religion, and traditions, promoting national unity and solidarity

. The concept of nationalism is modern, emerging strongly in the late 18th century with events like the American and French revolutions, which emphasized popular sovereignty and self-determination

. It has since played a major role in shaping political boundaries and identities worldwide, especially in Europe, Asia, and Africa

. Nationalism can manifest as political movements seeking statehood or autonomy, or as cultural movements aiming to preserve or revive national languages and traditions

. Philosophically, nationalism involves the belief that individuals' primary identity and loyalty lie with their nation, which demands preferential treatment over other affiliations

. This often includes the pursuit of national sovereignty and territorial control

. Nationalism is sometimes divided into ethnic nationalism (based on shared ethnicity) and civic nationalism (based on shared political values and citizenship)

. In summary, nationalism is the ideology that emphasizes the importance of the nation as a fundamental political and social unit, advocating for national self-governance, identity, and unity above other considerations