Nationhood: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'nation' comes from the Latin 'natio', meaning 'birth' or 'people'. It originally referred to groups of people with a common heritage.
• The concept of nationhood gained prominence during the Enlightenment in the 17th and 18th centuries, emphasizing the rights and identity of peoples.
• In many languages, terms related to nationhood reflect kinship and belonging, echoing the importance of shared identity.

Political Science

• Nationhood often drives movements for self-determination, where groups seek independence based on shared identity and governance.
• The modern concept of a nation-state emerged after the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, creating a system where political boundaries align with cultural identities.
• Challenges to nationhood can arise during globalization, where cultural identities may clash with broader global influences.

History

• The French Revolution in the late 18th century is a significant historical turning point, showcasing the rise of nationalism in Europe.
• Colonialism reshaped notions of nationhood by imposing foreign identities on indigenous peoples, leading to complex post-colonial dynamics.
• The establishment of the United Nations in 1945 recognized the importance of national self-determination for promoting global peace.

Culture

• Rituals, festivals, and shared traditions contribute significantly to feelings of nationhood, as they reinforce a common identity.
• Literature and art often reflect themes of nationhood, capturing the essence of a culture’s struggles, triumphs, and collective memory.
• National anthems and flags are powerful symbols of nationhood, evoking pride and uniting people around a common cause.

Positioned at #23,276, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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• 23273 spurned
• 23274 despondent
• 23275 fussy
• 23276 nationhood
• 23277 salting
• 23278 asexual
• 23279 serfdom
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