Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Ethnic cleavage refers to deep divisions or conflicts between different ethnic groups within a society. These divisions can be based on factors such as language, religion, culture, or historical grievances.
Related terms
Ethnic Conflict: Ethnic conflict refers specifically to violent clashes or hostilities between different ethnic groups within a society.
Nationalism is an ideology that promotes loyalty and devotion towards one's own nation or ethnic group, often leading to aspirations for self-rule or independence.
Identity Politics: Identity politics focuses on political mobilization based on shared identities such as ethnicity, race, gender, or religion, aiming to address issues faced by specific identity groups.