TU History National State, Nationalism and Imperialism Discussion

Post from Industrialization, National State, Nationalism and Imperialism:

Nationalism had been a growing force since the French revolution due to its association with the liberal and humanitarian ideals in the 19th century. Nationalism also focused more on humanity rather than citizenship as the main aim was to embrace the human family in their affection and in regard to the unity of God (Shafer 1955). Thus, people who strived to cause separation were considered betrayers, violate the law of life, and religion is not a guide and blessing of the future. The above concept is linked to the national state in a manner of the spread of nationalism. The focus here was to enhance the wellbeing of members of the state by focusing on the economic and social pressures (Shafer 1955). After fostering unity, people needed to indulge in production as well as socializing to improve their wellbeing. Eradication of peasantry was at its best as the land was taken from one person and given to the other. On the other hand, imperialism emphasizes the commercial interest of the nation with the surety of peace. Both the nation and Christians ventured into imperialism to spread the benefits of true civilization globally (Wilhelm II, 1915). Therefore, the three aspects are connected due to their focus on economic development and unity.

Nationalism, national state, and imperialism are connected to industrialization in terms of growth and development. While the three aspects emphasize on economic development and national unity, industrialization formulated occupations that improved people?s lives. Blumer et al., (1990) noted that people were privileged to work in industries like accountants, clerks, managers, among other occupations. The above progress by industrialization denotes the economic progress channeled by national, nationalism, and imperialism. Though nationalism encouraged equal distribution of land especially to those who lacked, it still fostered better living standards of the people. Notably, industrial growth is fostered by peace and unity that prevail in a given region. Nationalism, national state, and imperialism fostered peace.

QUESTIONS:

Reply to your fellow students comment with minimum of 150 words per each comment.

Student (1) comment:

I would disagree that imperialism or even nationalism fostered peace. Imperialism created competitiveness that was often brutal, often resulting in war. A quote from Lothar von Trotha summarizes the brutality in just the Herero rebellion shows the viciousness of attacks “The Herero people must leave the land. If they do not do this, I will force them with [big guns or cannon]. Within the German borders, every Herero, with or without a gun, with or without cattle, will be shot. I will no longer accept women and children. I will drive them back to their people or I will let them be shot at. This is my decision for the Herero people” (von Trotha 1904).

Furthermore, naturalism led to the arrogant view of a superior race and superior religion, which caused an attempt to change other humans’ core identity. That is directly related to nationalism. While a healthy sense of pride in your country and culture is a positive quality, when it becomes arrogant and costs others their lives to become the supreme country and no one stands up for what is right due to either believing they are superior or fear, it becomes a detrimental attribute.

References

Lothar von Trotha, “Proclamation 2,” October 2, 1904, quoted in Olusoga and Erichsen, The Kaiser’s Holocaust, 149?50

Student (2) comment:

Great post Isaac I do agree with you with the first sentence in your second paragraph. Nationalism and imperialism are connected to industrialization especially in the late 19th century to industrialization for developing new technological advances and economic growth. Even with neighboring countries that were attacked let us say for WW1 they saw a huge uptick in industrial growth. This however leads to my point that contradicts a later statement you posted. Imperialism during the late 19th century grows from nationalism and is not always peaceful. It can be and it has its matters of producing economic stability through diplomatic means that can foster growth in the market, trade, industrialization inventions, and economic and political stability. Yet imperialism can lead to savage ends. Depending on which country at the time imperialism lead some countries to economic depressions. With this being said some imperialistic ideas actually lead some countries to a slow pace in industrialization.

Student (3) comment:

I do believe that in some aspects of the three during the 19th century it did bring war amongst those. I think that maintaining the peace was the goal and in order to have all three areas covered completely and for everyone to be on the same page, it did take some time and dedication from all parties involved. Most people feared those that had bigger and better things, so it caused many battles for those who couldn’t live that life or were forced to work for those who were wealthier. Today, I do believe that we still struggle with this especially comparing to those who have more or trying to compete for the wealthier lifestyle. Overall, I think that nationalism, the national state, and imperialism played a huge part and still do to the extent of always feeling that you may have to compete against once another to gain a certain life.