Nationalism: Angel or Devil in Disguise?

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Nationalism unites people of different classes and beliefs. It can create harmony and give people a sense of identity, but nationalism is also a tool used by dictators, it can create violent forces and divide people from different geographies. Nelson Mandela conquered apartheid, united his country and inspired the world. Mandela was willing to die for his cause. After being imprisoned for 27 years the government ultimately agreed to terminate apartheid. Soon after he was released, blacks gained the right to vote in addition Mandela was elected as president. By pursuing his own national interest it led to two different groups of people who in the past hated each other, to working together and accepting one another. Mahatma Gandhi was the leader and freedom fighter in India, Gandhi’s vision of a free India was based on a religion pluralism however was challenged by a different Muslim nationalism which demanded a separate Muslim homeland carved out of India. When the British Indian Empire was split, religious violence broke out. Gandhi took leadership in congress and began a steady escalation of demands until the Indian national congress declared the independence of India. When the British forced people to sell there crops, the people then turned to Gandhi, who was an advocate of Ubuntu, meaning that all people are good, he pursued a strategy of non violent protest and showed them a revelation and won grant from the authorities. Therefore it is evident that a nations pursuit of its own national interest can lead to internationalism. Nationalism can indeed have positive outcomes, Nelson Mandela not only conquered apartheid he lead a nation. Gandhi led India to independence as well as inspired movements for civil rights and freedom ac...

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...he country. However, in 1994, the Rwandan President's plane was shot down. The Hutu's blamed the Tutsis for this incident and mass killings broke out throughout the entire country. In total about 800,000 people were killed, 90% of them Tutsis. Some blame is put on the UN Peace Keepers because if they had been doing their job, this would not have happened.
This proves once again in both examples that a nations pursuit of its national interest led to ultra nationalism, conflict and violence.

As we perceive from history, nationalism can be a force for heroism and honor or for revenge and conquest. It can unite a nation or tear them apart. Nelson Mandela united a nation, as did Mahatma Gandhi. Adolf Hitler did the exact opposite. I believe that non violent protest was one of the best ways to peace, “You much be the change you wish to see in the world.” –Mahatma Gandhi.

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