In nations such as Russia and Austria Hungary, how did nationalism become a divisive rather than unifying force?

Question

Ezra Adkins · Accepted Answer

Each nation wanted independence, have their own country

They were(and still are) multiple nations in those countries. Nationalism gave them the power and the will to ask for what they thought they were supossed to have (a.k.a become a sovereign country)

Madison Adams · Answer

undefined In nations such as Russia and Austria-Hungary, nationalism became a divisive force due to several factors. Firstly, these empires were multi-ethnic and comprised diverse populations with different languages, cultures, and historical backgrounds. Nationalist movements within these regions often sought to promote the interests of specific ethnic or cultural groups, leading to tensions and conflicts between different communities.

Secondly, the ruling authorities in these empires often pursued policies that suppressed or marginalized minority groups in favor of the dominant ethnic or cultural elites. This fueled resentment and resistance among marginalized communities, leading to further divisions along ethnic and national lines.

Additionally, the rise of nationalist ideologies in these regions coincided with broader geopolitical developments, such as the decline of empires and the emergence of new nation-states. Competing nationalist aspirations and territorial claims exacerbated tensions and conflicts within these multi-ethnic empires, ultimately contributing to their disintegration.

Furthermore, external influences, such as foreign interventions and alliances, also played a role in exacerbating nationalist sentiments and divisions within these empires. Imperial rivalries and conflicts often exploited nationalist grievances to advance geopolitical interests, further fueling instability and fragmentation within these regions.

Overall, nationalism in nations like Russia and Austria-Hungary became a divisive force due to the complex interplay of historical, cultural, political, and geopolitical factors, which exacerbated ethnic tensions, marginalized minority groups, and ultimately contributed to the disintegration of these multi-ethnic empires.