Nationalism and Fascism Dunn 1
Nationalism and Fascism: Definitions, Differences, and Connections
Grand Canyon University
Gov 307- Introduction to Political Theory
Nationalism and Fascism Dunn 2
Nationalism and Fascism: Definitions, Differences, and Connections
Nationalism and fascism are two political ideologies that have shaped the course of
modern history, especially in the 19th and 20th centuries. Though they share certain themes, such
as a strong emphasis on national identity, they are fundamentally distinct in theory and practice.
Understanding the definitions of each, their differences, and the historical connection between
them can clarify whether nationalism inevitably leads to fascism.
Nationalism is the belief that people who share a common language, culture, history, or
ethnicity should form an independent nation and govern themselves. It emphasizes loyalty, pride,
and devotion to one’s nation, often placing the interests of that nation above others. At its core,
nationalism can be a unifying force that fosters patriotism, strengthens national identity, and
promotes collective goals. Scholars differentiate between forms of nationalism—such as civic
, nationalism, which is inclusive and based on shared values, and ethnic nationalism, which
“centers around shared ancestry and heritage” (Smith, 2010).
Nationalist movements have historically played major roles in state formation,
anti-colonial struggles, and democratic self-determination. For instance, movements in India
under Gandhi and later across Africa during the mid-20th century were “nationalist but not
fascist in nature” (Anderson, 2006).
Fascism, on the other hand, is an authoritarian and ultra-nationalist ideology that rejects
liberal democracy, promotes dictatorial leadership, and demands total allegiance to the state. It
emerged in the early 20th century, most notably under Benito Mussolini in Italy and Adolf Hitler
Nationalism and Fascism: Definitions, Differences, and Connections
Grand Canyon University
Gov 307- Introduction to Political Theory
Nationalism and Fascism Dunn 2
Nationalism and Fascism: Definitions, Differences, and Connections
Nationalism and fascism are two political ideologies that have shaped the course of
modern history, especially in the 19th and 20th centuries. Though they share certain themes, such
as a strong emphasis on national identity, they are fundamentally distinct in theory and practice.
Understanding the definitions of each, their differences, and the historical connection between
them can clarify whether nationalism inevitably leads to fascism.
Nationalism is the belief that people who share a common language, culture, history, or
ethnicity should form an independent nation and govern themselves. It emphasizes loyalty, pride,
and devotion to one’s nation, often placing the interests of that nation above others. At its core,
nationalism can be a unifying force that fosters patriotism, strengthens national identity, and
promotes collective goals. Scholars differentiate between forms of nationalism—such as civic
, nationalism, which is inclusive and based on shared values, and ethnic nationalism, which
“centers around shared ancestry and heritage” (Smith, 2010).
Nationalist movements have historically played major roles in state formation,
anti-colonial struggles, and democratic self-determination. For instance, movements in India
under Gandhi and later across Africa during the mid-20th century were “nationalist but not
fascist in nature” (Anderson, 2006).
Fascism, on the other hand, is an authoritarian and ultra-nationalist ideology that rejects
liberal democracy, promotes dictatorial leadership, and demands total allegiance to the state. It
emerged in the early 20th century, most notably under Benito Mussolini in Italy and Adolf Hitler
