NATIONALISM

NATIONALISM CLASS 11

 A. Very Short Answer Questions (1 Mark)

1. What is nationalism?

Ans. Nationalism is a feeling of love, loyalty, and devotion toward one’s nation that unites people with a common identity.

2. What is nation-state?

Ans. A nation-state is a political entity where people with common identity live under one government.

3. Who is known as the ‘Father of Indian Nationalism’?

Ans. Raja Ram Mohan Roy.

4. What is the basis of cultural nationalism?

Ans. Shared culture, language, traditions and heritage.

5. Which book was written by Benedict Anderson on nationalism?

Ans. Imagined Communities.

 B. Short Answer Questions (2–3 Marks)

6. Mention any two features of nationalism.

Ans.

1. It creates emotional unity among people.

2. It promotes the idea of common identity and pride in national symbols, history, and culture.

7. What is the difference between nation and state?

Ans.

• Nation is a group of people with common identity, culture, history and aspirations.

• State is a political organization with government, territory, population and sovereignty.
  A nation may not have sovereignty, but a state always has.

8. What is liberal nationalism?

Ans. Liberal nationalism emphasizes individual freedom, equality, constitutional government, and the idea that people have the right to choose their rulers.

9. Explain any two factors responsible for the rise of nationalism in Europe.

Ans.

1. French Revolution – It spread ideas of liberty, equality and fraternity.

2. Growth of middle class – Demanded political rights and representation, leading to national awakening.

10. How did nationalism grow in India during the British period?

Ans.

• Economic exploitation by the British created common suffering.

• Reform movements promoted unity.

• The spread of Western education created political awareness.

• Formation of Indian National Congress gave a common platform.

C. Long Answer Questions 

11. Explain the main features of nationalism.

Ans.

1. Common Identity: Based on shared culture, history, language or religion.

2. Sense of Unity: People feel emotionally connected with each other.

3. Desire for Self-Government: Nationalism encourages people to form an independent nation-state.

4. National Symbols: Flag, anthem, monuments strengthen national feeling.

5. Collective Pride: People take pride in national achievements and heritage.

12. Describe the role of the French Revolution in the growth of nationalism in Europe.

Ans.

• Introduced principles of liberty, equality and fraternity.

• Ended monarchy and established a nation based on citizens, not rulers.

• Standardized language, laws and administration, developing unity.

• French armies spread nationalist ideas in Europe.

• Encouraged the oppressed nations to unite and fight for independence.

13. Discuss the growth of Indian nationalism in the 19th century.

Ans.

1. British exploitation created economic hardships, uniting Indians.

2. Social reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy ended social evils and created modern thinking.

3. Rise of middle class and education created political consciousness.

4. Press and literature spread nationalist ideas across India.

5. Indian National Congress (1885) provided a national platform.

6. Religious and cultural revival promoted the idea of a shared Indian identity.

14. What is cultural nationalism? Give examples.

Ans.
Cultural nationalism refers to unity based on shared cultural heritage—language, history, customs and traditions.
Examples:

• Promotion of Hindi as a national language.

• Revival of Indian festivals, art, music.

• Movements to preserve ancient Indian culture.

15. Explain the negative aspects of nationalism.

Ans.

1. Extreme nationalism may lead to hatred for other nations.

2. Causes wars and conflicts (e.g., World Wars).

3. Leads to racial superiority and discrimination.

4. May promote separatism within countries.

  High Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) Questions

16. “Nationalism unites but also divides.” Explain.

Ans.
Nationalism unites people of a nation through shared identity, but it can divide different groups by creating a sense of superiority. Excessive nationalism leads to conflicts, separatism and violence.

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17. How is nationalism different in democracies and dictatorships?

Ans.

• In democracies, nationalism is based on freedom, equality and participation.

• In dictatorships, nationalism is used as propaganda to control people and suppress dissent.