Nationalism was an extreme form of patriotism that swept across Europe beginning in the 1800's. Supporters of nationalism placed loyalty to their nation above any other public loyalty. They defined nationality by language and ethnicity. They viewed foreigners and minority groups with suspicion and scorn. Such beliefs helped nations justify their conquests of other lands. Such ideas also helped justify the poor treatment of minorities within their borders. Nationalism was a chief cause of World War I. It grew even stronger afterward.
Nationalism corresponded with feelings of discontent. The more people felt deprived of national honor, the more they wished to see their country powerful and able to insist on its rights. Many Germans felt humiliated by their defeat in World War I and the harsh terms of the Treaty of Versailles. During the 1930's, they enthusiastically supported the National Socialist German Workers' Party - The Nazis. The Nazi Party glorified Germany's position in the world and vowed to make the nation strong again.
The Peace of Paris established an international organization called the League of Nations to maintain peace. But nationalism and individual arguments prevented the League from working effectively. Each country backed its own interests at the expense of other countries. Only weak countries agreed to submit their disagreements to the League of Nations for settlement. Strong nations reserved the right to settle their disputes by threats or even force.
Nationalism corresponded with feelings of discontent. The more people felt deprived of national honor, the more they wished to see their country powerful and able to insist on its rights. Many Germans felt humiliated by their defeat in World War I and the harsh terms of the Treaty of Versailles. During the 1930's, they enthusiastically supported the National Socialist German Workers' Party - The Nazis. The Nazi Party glorified Germany's position in the world and vowed to make the nation strong again.
The Peace of Paris established an international organization called the League of Nations to maintain peace. But nationalism and individual arguments prevented the League from working effectively. Each country backed its own interests at the expense of other countries. Only weak countries agreed to submit their disagreements to the League of Nations for settlement. Strong nations reserved the right to settle their disputes by threats or even force.