Final answer:
Nationalism emerged prominently during the French Revolution, creating a sense of national unity and challenging the traditional loyalty to monarchy. It spread across Europe, leading to the formation of nation-states and inspiring movements for self-determination and national identity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nationalism During the French Revolution
The concept of nationalism gained traction during the French Revolution as it signified a unified national identity, often in place of loyalty to a king or church. Revolutionaries called upon the nation to defend itself against external threats, instilling a sense of belonging and community. The French revolutionaries introduced the Marseillaise as a national anthem, fought for la patrie (the fatherland), and embraced secular government over religious rule. This wave of nationalism spread beyond France as countries invaded by the revolutionary forces developed their own national identity in defiance of French universalism.
The aftermath of the Napoleonic wars saw a resurgence of nationalist sentiments, eventually leading to concerted movements for national unity and self-determination. Romantic nationalism, driven by the Romantic movement in the arts, further imbued the concept of a national spirit or culture. The political landscape of Europe was significantly altered, marked by the emergence of new nation-states and the ideological shift towards a nation as sovereign rather than monarchy.
In summary, during the French Revolution and ensuing years, nationalism became an influential force, reshaping political allegiance and contributing to the development of nation-states rooted in common goals, values, and cultural identity.