NCERT Class 11 Political Science Political Theory: Chapter 7 — Nationalism
This chapter from NCERT's Political Theory for Class 11 introduces the concept of nationalism and the nation. It explores the complexities and varied interpretations of nationalism, moving beyond simple definitions like patriotism or national symbols. The text highlights nationalism's significant role in shaping world history over the past two centuries, noting its capacity to inspire intense loyalty, unite people, and lead to liberation, but also to conflict, bitterness, and wars. It discusses how nationalism has been a driving force behind the formation and dissolution of states and empires, citing examples like the unification of Germany and Italy and the breakup of empires. The chapter emphasizes that nationalism has evolved through different phases, contributing to the consolidation of state boundaries, common languages, and a shared political identity based on nation-state membership. It also touches upon separatist struggles within existing states, underscoring the ongoing reordering of state boundaries. This chapter aims to help students understand the concepts of nation and nationalism, acknowledge their strengths and limitations, and appreciate the connection between democracy and nationalism.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 11 |
| Subject | Political Science |
| Book | Political Theory |
| Chapter | Chapter 7 — Nationalism |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 3 minutes |
| Word count | 477 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the concepts of nation and nationalism.
- Acknowledge the strengths and limitations of nationalism.
- Appreciate the need for ensuring a link between democracy and nationalism.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Nationalism | A political creed that plays an important role in world affairs, inspiring loyalties, uniting or dividing people, and shaping history. |
| Nation | A concept closely related to nationalism, often referring to a group of people with a shared identity. |
| Patriotism | Love for or devotion to one's country. |
| Political Creed | A set of beliefs and principles that guide political action and thought. |
| Nation-state | A sovereign state whose citizens or subjects are relatively homogeneous in factors such as language or common descent. |
| Consolidation | The process of strengthening and unifying state boundaries, loyalties, and identity. |
| Separatist struggles | Movements or conflicts within existing states seeking to form a new state or gain autonomy. |
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Practice questions
- What are some common understandings of nationalism mentioned in the chapter? Answer: Common understandings include patriotism, national flags, and sacrificing for the country.
- How has nationalism influenced history over the last two centuries? Answer: Nationalism has inspired loyalties, united or divided people, led to liberation, and caused conflict and wars, influencing the formation and breakup of states and empires.
- What is an example of unification through nationalism mentioned in the text? Answer: The formation of the present-day German and Italian states through the unification of smaller kingdoms is an example.
- What does the chapter suggest about the definition of nationalism? Answer: The chapter suggests that it is difficult to arrive at a precise and widely accepted definition of nationalism.
Practice MCQs
Q1. Which of the following is NOT typically associated with common understandings of nationalism?
Explanation: The text mentions patriotism, national flags, and sacrificing for the country as common understandings of nationalism, while international cooperation is not listed.
Q2. Nationalism has been described as a compelling political creed that has:
Explanation: The chapter states that nationalism has inspired intense loyalties as well as deep hatreds, and has united people as well as divided them.
Q3. The chapter mentions the unification of which European states as an example of nationalism's impact?
Explanation: The text specifically cites the present-day German and Italian states as examples formed through unification driven by nationalism in the nineteenth century.
Q4. What process has nationalism contributed to regarding state boundaries?
Explanation: The chapter states that nationalist struggles have contributed to the drawing and redrawing of the boundaries of states and empires.
Q5. According to the chapter, what is difficult to arrive at regarding nationalism?
Explanation: The text explicitly mentions that 'it is difficult to arrive at a precise and widely accepted definition of the term nationalism'.
Frequently asked questions
What is nationalism?
Nationalism is a political creed that plays a significant role in world affairs, influencing history by inspiring loyalties, uniting or dividing people, and leading to both liberation and conflict.
Why is nationalism important to study?
It is important to study because nationalism has emerged as one of the most compelling political creeds, shaping history and influencing global events significantly over the last two centuries.
What are some historical examples of nationalism's impact?
Examples include the unification of smaller kingdoms into larger nation-states like Germany and Italy, and the breakup of large empires such as the Austro-Hungarian and Russian empires.
What is a nation-state?
A nation-state is a sovereign state whose citizens share a common identity, often based on language or common descent, and it is a result of the consolidation of state boundaries and common languages.
Does nationalism only lead to positive outcomes?
No, while nationalism can inspire loyalty and lead to liberation, it has also been the cause of conflict, bitterness, wars, and the breakup of empires.
What is the relationship between democracy and nationalism discussed in the chapter?
The chapter aims to help students appreciate the need for ensuring a link between democracy and nationalism, suggesting it is an important aspect to consider.
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NCERT Class 11 Political Science — Political Theory — Chapter 7 — Nationalism. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.