Nation-State

Definition

A nation-state is a political entity that derives its political legitimacy from serving as a sovereign state for a nation, a large social grouping of people who share a common language, culture, ethnicity, descent, and/or history, and who reside in a defined territory with a centralized public administration and government. The concept of a nation-state is closely tied to the emergence of modern statehood and nationalism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nation-states emerged as the dominant form of political organization in the modern era, replacing the previous system of empires and city-states.
2. The concept of the nation-state is based on the idea that each nation should have its own state, and each state should represent a single nation.
3. Nation-states often use language, culture, and shared history as unifying factors to create a sense of national identity and loyalty among their citizens.
4. The establishment of nation-states has been closely tied to the rise of nationalism, which emphasizes the importance of national unity and self-determination.
5. The principle of self-determination, which emerged after World War I, has been a driving force behind the creation of new nation-states, as groups have sought to establish their own sovereign states.

Review Questions

• Explain the key features that define a nation-state and how they differ from previous forms of political organization.
  • A nation-state is a political entity that derives its legitimacy from serving as a sovereign state for a nation, a large social grouping of people who share a common language, culture, ethnicity, descent, and/or history, and who reside in a defined territory with a centralized public administration and government. This differs from previous forms of political organization, such as empires and city-states, which were not necessarily based on the alignment of political and national boundaries. The nation-state concept is closely tied to the rise of nationalism and the principle of self-determination, which have been driving forces behind the creation of new sovereign states in the modern era.
• Analyze the role of language, culture, and shared history in the formation and maintenance of nation-states.
  • Nation-states often use language, culture, and shared history as unifying factors to create a sense of national identity and loyalty among their citizens. These elements serve to differentiate one nation from another and provide a common foundation for the political, social, and economic institutions of the state. The promotion of a shared national identity and culture can be a powerful tool for nation-states to legitimize their authority and foster a sense of belonging among their population. However, the emphasis on cultural homogeneity within nation-states can also lead to the marginalization or suppression of minority groups, which can be a source of tension and conflict.
• Evaluate the role of the principle of self-determination in the creation of new nation-states, and discuss the challenges and implications this has had for the international system.
  • The principle of self-determination, which emerged after World War I, has been a driving force behind the creation of new nation-states, as groups have sought to establish their own sovereign states. This has led to the proliferation of nation-states in the modern era, as various ethnic, linguistic, and cultural groups have asserted their right to self-determination. However, the creation of new nation-states has also posed challenges for the international system, as it has often resulted in the redrawing of borders, the displacement of populations, and the emergence of new political and economic tensions. The tension between the principle of self-determination and the need for stability and order in the international system has been a persistent issue, and has contributed to ongoing conflicts and geopolitical tensions in various regions of the world.

Related terms

Sovereignty:

The supreme power or authority within a territory, exercised by a central government that has the exclusive right to make laws and enforce them.

Nationalism:

An ideology and movement characterized by the promotion of the interests of a particular nation, especially with the aim of gaining and maintaining the nation's sovereignty as a state.

Ethnicity: The identity of a group of people having common racial, national, religious, linguistic, or cultural origins and backgrounds.