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What Is Patriotism? Definition, Examples, Pros and Cons

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Simply stated, patriotism is the feeling of love for one’s country. Demonstrating patriotism—being “patriotic”—is one of the necessities of being the stereotypical good citizen. Patriotism, like many well-intentioned actions, can be harmful when taken to an extreme.

Key Takeaways

• Patriotism is the feeling and expression of love for one’s home country, along with a feeling of unity with those who share those feelings
• Though it shares patriotism’s love of country, nationalism is the belief that one’s home country is superior to all others
• While considered a necessary attribute of good citizenship, when patriotism becomes politically mandatory, it can cross a line

Patriotism Definition

Along with love, patriotism is the feeling of pride, devotion, and attachment to a homeland, as well as a feeling of attachment to other patriotic citizens. Feelings of attachment may be bound further by factors like race or ethnicity, culture, religious beliefs, or history.

Historic Perspective

Patriotism originated some 2,000 years before the rise of nationalism in the 19th century. Greek and especially Roman antiquity provide the roots for a philosophy of political patriotism that conceives loyalty to the “patria,”—the power that the male head of a family exercised over his children—like loyalty to a political conception of the republic. It is associated with the love of law and common liberty, the search for common good , and the duty to behave justly toward one’s country. The Roman meaning of patria is repeated in the context of the Italian city-states of the 15th century, such as Naples and Venice , as representing the common liberty of the city, which can only be safeguarded by the citizens’ civic spirit.

To the Renaissance period Italian diplomat, author, philosopher, and historian Niccolò Machiavelli , the love of common liberty enabled citizens to see their private and particular interests as part of the common good and helped them to resist corruption and tyranny. While a love of the city is typically intermixed with pride in its military strength and cultural superiority, the political institutions and the city's way of life form the distinctive focal point of this kind of patriotic attachment. To love the city is to be willing to sacrifice one’s own good—including one’s life—for common liberty.

While patriotism is evident throughout history, it was not always considered a civic virtue. In 18th-century Europe, for example, devotion to the state was considered a betrayal of devotion to the church.   

Other 18th-century scholars also found fault with what they considered excessive patriotism. In 1775, Samuel Johnson , whose 1774 essay The Patriot criticized those who claimed false devotion to Britain, famously called patriotism “the last refuge of the scoundrel.”

Arguably, America’s first patriots were its Founding Fathers who risked their lives to create a nation that reflected their visions of freedom with equality. They summarized this vision in The Declaration of Independence :

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

In that single sentence, the Founders dispelled the long-held belief of the ruling British Monarchy that an individual’s pursuit of personal happiness was nothing more than a disloyal act of self-indulgence. Instead, they acknowledged that the right of each citizen to pursue personal fulfillment was essential to the qualities, such as ambition and creativity, that would fuel the nation’s economy. As a result, the pursuit of happiness became and remains the force behind America’s entrepreneurial system of free-market capitalism .  

The Declaration of Independence further states, “That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.” In this phrase, the Founding Fathers rejected the autocratic rule of monarchs and confirmed the revolutionary principle of “government of the people, by the people” as the basis of American democracy and the reason the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution begins with the words “We the People.”

Examples of Patriotism

There are countless ways of showing patriotism. Standing for the National Anthem and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance are obvious ones. Perhaps more importantly, many of the most beneficial acts of patriotism in the U.S. celebrate and strengthen the country. A few of these include:

• Participating in the representative democracy by registering to vote and voting in elections .
• Volunteering for community service or running for elected government office .
• Serving on juries .
• Obeying all laws and paying taxes .
• Understanding the rights, freedoms, and responsibilities contained in the U.S. Constitution .

Patriotism vs. Nationalism

While the words patriotism and nationalism were once considered synonyms, they have taken on different connotations. While both are the feelings of love people feel for their country, the values upon which those feelings are based are very different.

Feelings of patriotism are based on the positive values the country embraces—like freedom, justice, and equality. The patriot believes the system of government and the people of their country are inherently good and work together for a better quality of life.

In contrast, feelings of nationalism are based on a belief that one’s country is superior to all others. It also carries a connotation of distrust or disapproval of other countries, leading to the assumption that other countries are rivals. While patriots do not automatically denigrate other countries, nationalists do, sometimes to the point of calling for their country’s global dominance. Nationalism, through its protectionist beliefs, is the polar opposite of globalism .

Historically, the effects of nationalism have been both positive and negative. While it has driven independence movements, like the Zionist movement that created modern Israel, it was also a key factor in the rise of the German Nazi Party and the Holocaust . 

Patriotism versus nationalism arose as a political issue when former President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron verbally sparred over the meaning of the terms.

At a rally on October 23, 2018, Trump defended his populist “Make America Great Again” platform and protectionist policies of tariffs on imports, officially declaring himself a “nationalist":

“A globalist is a person that wants the globe to do well, frankly, not caring about our country so much,” he said. “And you know what? We can't have that. You know, they have a word. It sort of became old-fashioned. It's called a nationalist. And I say, really, we’re not supposed to use that word. You know what I am? I’m a nationalist, OK? I’m a nationalist.”

President Macron, speaking at the 100th Armistice Day ceremony in Paris on November 11, 2018, offered a different meaning of nationalism. He defined nationalism as “putting our nation first, and not caring about the others.” By rejecting the interests of other countries, Macron asserted, “We erase what a nation holds dearest, what gives it life, what makes it great and what is essential, its moral values.”

Pros and Cons of Patriotism

Few countries survive and prosper without some degree of patriotic feelings among their people. A love of country and shared pride bring people together, helping them endure challenges. Without shared patriotic beliefs, colonial Americans may not have chosen to travel the road to independence from England. More recently, patriotism brought the American people together to overcome the Great Depression and achieve victory in World War II .

The potential downside of patriotism is that if it becomes a mandatory political doctrine, it can turn groups of people against each other and lead the country to reject its fundamental values.

A few examples from United States history include:

As early as 1798, extreme patriotism, spurred by fears of a war with France , led Congress to enact the Alien and Sedition Acts allowing the jailing of certain U.S. immigrants without due process of law and restricting the First Amendment freedoms of speech and the press .

In 1919, early fears of Communism triggered the Palmer raids resulting in the arrest and immediate deportation without trial of more than 10,000 German- and Russian-American immigrants.

After the December 7, 1941, Japanese air raid on Pearl Harbor , the Franklin Roosevelt administration ordered some 127,000 American citizens of Japanese ancestry imprisoned in internment camps for the duration of World War II.

During the Red Scare of the early 1950s, the McCarthy era saw thousands of Americans accused without evidence by the government of being communists or communist sympathizers. After a series of so-called “investigations” conducted by Senator Joseph McCarthy , hundreds of those accused were ostracized and prosecuted for their political beliefs.

• Johnson, Samuel (1774). “ The Patriot .” SamuelJohnson.com
• “ Nationalism .” Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. Plato.stanford.edu
• Boswell, James, Hibbert, “The Life of Samuel Johnson.” Penguin Classics, ISBN 0-14-043116-0
• Diamond, Jeremy. “ Trump embraces 'nationalist' title at Texas rally .” CNN (October 23, 2018)
• Liptak. Kevin. “ Macron rebukes nationalism as Trump observes Armistice Day. ” CNN (November 12, 2018)
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Nationalism vs Patriotism – Differences and Similarities

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Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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The key difference between nationalism and patriotism is that nationalism is the belief in an exclusionary and insular nation-state, while patriotism is the non-exclusionary love of your own nation.

Here is a breakdown of the differences:

• Nationalism is a belief that your nation sits that the top of a hierarchy of nations. You believe your nation’s interests are is inherently more important than those of any other country in the world.
• Patriotism , on the other hand, is simply the love of your country and culture. Patriots know that you can love your own nation without thinking it’s objectively better than anyone else’s.

While nationalism and patriotism both represent love of country, patriotism is seen as a positive form of self-expression whereas nationalism is seen as an exclusionary act and assertion of power.

Table of Differences: Nationalism vs Patriotism

What is nationalism.

Nationalism is an ideological and political movement that promotes the idea of a particular nation as an inherently superior or infallible entity.

The concept of nationalism has also been used to promote the idea of a unified people or culture, and it has sometimes been used to promote xenophobic or imperialist attitudes.

There are at least 14 types of nationalism that sit along a spectrum.

On the softer end of the spectrum, versions of nationalism such as civic nationalism overlap significantly with patriotism. For example, civic and liberal nationalists believe in the rule of law , multiculturalism, and democracy (and see these values as central reasons why their country is ‘great’).

On the other end of the spectrum, ethnonationalism and expansionist nationalism can lead to ethnic cleansing and world wars.

What is Patriotism?

Patriotism is feeling proud of and loyal to one’s country. It can stem from having a soft spot for your culture and neighbors or appreciation of everything the country gave you as you were growing up.

Patriotism can manifest in many ways, including:

• Standing for election to represent your nation
• Supporting your country’s football team
• Playing in your country’s football team
• Celebrating national holidays
• Showing pride in your national identity
• Fighting for your country in the military
• Working to make your country a better place

While the above actions can also be the actions of nationalists, patriots do these things only because they love their country and want the best for it and not because they see their country as being in a contest with other countries to be the objectively “best” group of people in the world.

Nationalism vs Supranationalism

Supranationalism is a term related to nationalism, but it is actually anti- nationalistic. Supranationalism refers to the idea of multiple nations coming together to form a higher authority, such as a supranational organization or government. Nationalism, as we have seen, prioritizes the opposite: nationalism is against ceding sovereignty. While nationalists emphasize national culture, identity, and independence, spranationalists emphasize cooperation, interdependence, and a shared cross-border identity.

Patriotism and nationalism are two sides of the same coin. While both involve love of your country, patriots see their love of their country as a subjective feeling while nationalists think that their country is objectively the greatest nation on earth.

While patriotism is generally seen as a positive trait representing pride in your heritage, nationalism tends to be seen as more extreme. Nationalism has led to significant harm, discrimination, prejudice, and war.

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Patriotism vs. Nationalism: Understanding the Key Differences

By: Author English Study Online

Posted on Last updated: March 9, 2024

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When it comes to expressing love and loyalty towards one’s country, the terms patriotism and nationalism are often used interchangeably. However, there is a significant difference between the two concepts. While both patriotism and nationalism involve a deep affection for one’s country, nationalism can take on an extreme form that can be harmful to other nations and people.

Patriotism vs. Nationalism

Table of Contents

What is Patriotism?

Defining patriotism.

Patriotism is the feeling of love, devotion, and sense of attachment to one’s country, often expressed by a willingness to sacrifice for it, and the celebration of the nation’s history, culture, and values.

Patriotism is characterized by a deep love and loyalty to one’s country. It involves a sense of pride in one’s national identity and a desire to defend one’s country from external threats. Patriotism is often associated with sacrifice and service to one’s country.

Some key characteristics of patriotism include:

• Love and devotion to one’s country
• Pride in national identity
• Desire to defend one’s country
• Willingness to sacrifice for the common good
• Service to one’s country

Historical Context

The concept of patriotism can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Greece and Rome. In these societies, patriotism was seen as a virtue and a duty of citizens to defend their city-state. During the Middle Ages, loyalty to one’s lord or king was considered a form of patriotism.

The modern concept of patriotism emerged during the Age of Enlightenment, when the idea of the nation-state became popular. In the 18th and 19th centuries, patriotism became associated with the defense of national identity and the promotion of national unity.

What is Nationalism?

Defining nationalism.

Nationalism is a political ideology that emphasizes the interests and culture of a particular nation, often in contrast to those of other nations. It is a belief system that holds that a nation, defined by its language, culture, and history, is the most important unit of political identity and that the interests of the nation should be prioritized over those of other nations or international organizations.

Nationalism is characterized by several key features. These include:

• A belief in the importance of the nation as a political entity
• A focus on the interests of the nation, often to the exclusion of other nations or international organizations
• A sense of pride in the nation’s history, culture, and achievements
• A belief in the superiority of the nation’s values and way of life
• A desire for national self-determination, often expressed through demands for independence or autonomy
• A willingness to defend the nation’s interests, often through military means

Nationalism emerged as a political force in the late 18th and early 19th centuries in Europe, as a reaction to the rise of the modern nation-state and the decline of traditional empires. It was closely linked to the idea of self-determination, which held that each nation should have its own state and government. Nationalism played a key role in the unification of Italy and Germany in the 19th century and the breakup of multinational empires such as the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Ottoman Empire after World War I.

Patriotism vs. Nationalism: Examples in Society

Examples of patriotism.

Patriotism can be seen in many different aspects of society. It is often expressed through symbols such as the national flag or anthem. Patriotism can also be seen in the actions of individuals who serve in the military or other public service roles.

Examples of patriotism in society include:

• Military service
• Public service
• Displaying the national flag or other symbols of national identity
• Supporting national sports teams
• Celebrating national holidays

In conclusion, patriotism is a complex and multifaceted concept that has evolved over time. It is characterized by a deep love and loyalty to one’s country and a desire to defend it from external threats. Patriotism can be seen in many different aspects of society, from military service to public displays of national identity.

Examples of Nationalism

Nationalism has played a significant role in many historical and contemporary events. Some examples of nationalism in action include:

• The rise of Nazi Germany and its emphasis on Aryan supremacy and the need for Lebensraum (living space)
• The breakup of Yugoslavia in the 1990s, as various ethnic groups sought to establish their own independent states
• The ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, which is rooted in competing national claims to the same territory
• The rise of populist nationalist movements in many countries, including the United States, Hungary, and Brazil, which have emphasized the interests of the nation over those of international organizations or global cooperation.

Patriotism vs. Nationalism : A Comparative Analysis

Differences in ideology.

Patriotism and nationalism are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Patriotism is a love for one’s country and a willingness to defend it against enemies. Nationalism, on the other hand, is an extreme form of patriotism that emphasizes the superiority of one’s country over all others.

Patriotism is based on the idea that a nation is made up of individuals who share common values, traditions, and beliefs. It is a unifying force that brings people together and promotes a sense of community. Nationalism, on the other hand, is based on the idea that a nation is defined by its ethnicity, language, or culture. This can lead to exclusionary policies that discriminate against minority groups.

Impact on Society

Patriotism and nationalism have different impacts on society. Patriotism promotes a sense of unity and belonging, which can lead to a stronger and more cohesive society. It encourages people to work together for the common good and to support each other in times of need.

Nationalism, on the other hand, can be divisive and lead to conflict. It can create an “us vs. them” mentality that pits one group against another. This can lead to discrimination, prejudice, and even violence against minority groups.

Role in Politics

Patriotism and nationalism also play different roles in politics. Patriotism is often used to rally support for a government or a cause. It can be a unifying force that brings people together behind a common goal.

Nationalism, on the other hand, can be used to justify aggressive or expansionist policies. It can lead to a sense of entitlement that justifies the use of force to achieve political goals. This can lead to conflicts with other countries and even wars.

Implications of Patriotism and Nationalism

Influence on international relations.

Patriotism and nationalism can have a significant impact on international relations. Countries that prioritize patriotism tend to focus on their own interests and may be less willing to engage in international cooperation. On the other hand, countries that prioritize nationalism may view their own country as superior to others, leading to conflicts with other nations.

For example, during World War II, Nazi Germany’s extreme nationalism led to the invasion of other countries and the genocide of millions of people. In contrast, the United States’ patriotism during the war led to a focus on protecting their own country and allies, while also working with other nations to defeat the Axis powers.

Effect on Domestic Policies

Patriotism and nationalism can also have an impact on domestic policies. A country that prioritizes patriotism may focus on improving the lives of its citizens and promoting national unity. However, this can sometimes lead to policies that exclude or discriminate against minority groups.

On the other hand, a country that prioritizes nationalism may prioritize the interests of the majority group over minority groups, potentially leading to discrimination and social unrest.

For example, in India, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) promotes nationalism and Hindu supremacy, leading to policies that discriminate against Muslims and other minority groups. In contrast, countries like Canada and Australia prioritize patriotism, which has led to policies promoting multiculturalism and inclusivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some examples of patriotism?

Patriotism can manifest in various ways, such as displaying the national flag, participating in national holidays and events, supporting national sports teams, and showing respect for national symbols and institutions. Patriotism also involves a sense of duty towards the country, including voting, paying taxes, and serving in the military or other public service.

What is the importance of patriotism?

Patriotism can help foster a sense of national unity and identity, which can be important for a country’s stability and prosperity. It can also inspire individuals to work towards the betterment of their country and fellow citizens. However, excessive patriotism can lead to xenophobia, discrimination, and a blind acceptance of government policies.

What is the importance of nationalism?

Nationalism is the belief that one’s country is superior to others and should have control over its own affairs. It can be a powerful force for mobilizing people towards a common goal, such as independence or national pride. However, extreme nationalism can lead to conflicts with other countries and groups, as well as a disregard for human rights and international cooperation.

What are the similarities between nationalism and patriotism?

Nationalism and patriotism both involve a love and loyalty towards one’s country, as well as a desire to promote its interests and values. They can both inspire people to work towards the betterment of their country and fellow citizens. However, nationalism is often associated with a more aggressive and exclusive form of national pride, while patriotism is seen as a more inclusive and tolerant form of national pride.

How does Orwell differentiate between nationalism and patriotism?

George Orwell famously wrote that “Nationalism is not to be confused with patriotism.” He argued that nationalism involves a desire for power and domination over others, while patriotism involves a love and loyalty towards one’s country without necessarily seeking to impose it on others. Orwell believed that nationalism was a dangerous force that could lead to war and oppression.

What is the difference between nationalism and patriotism?

The main difference between nationalism and patriotism is the extent of one’s loyalty and pride towards their country. Nationalism involves a belief in the superiority of one’s country and a desire to promote its interests above those of others, often at the expense of international cooperation and human rights. Patriotism involves a love and loyalty towards one’s country, but without necessarily believing it is superior to others or seeking to dominate them.

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Patriotism can help foster a sense of national unity and identity, which can be important for a country's stability and prosperity. It can also inspire individuals to work towards the betterment of their country and fellow citizens. However, excessive patriotism can lead to xenophobia, discrimination, and a blind acceptance of government policies.

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Nationalism is the belief that one's country is superior to others and should have control over its own affairs. It can be a powerful force for mobilizing people towards a common goal, such as independence or national pride. However, extreme nationalism can lead to conflicts with other countries and groups, as well as a disregard for human rights and international cooperation.

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Nationalism and patriotism both involve a love and loyalty towards one's country, as well as a desire to promote its interests and values. They can both inspire people to work towards the betterment of their country and fellow citizens. However, nationalism is often associated with a more aggressive and exclusive form of national pride, while patriotism is seen as a more inclusive and tolerant form of national pride.

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George Orwell famously wrote that \"Nationalism is not to be confused with patriotism.\" He argued that nationalism involves a desire for power and domination over others, while patriotism involves a love and loyalty towards one's country without necessarily seeking to impose it on others. Orwell believed that nationalism was a dangerous force that could lead to war and oppression.

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The main difference between nationalism and patriotism is the extent of one's loyalty and pride towards their country. Nationalism involves a belief in the superiority of one's country and a desire to promote its interests above those of others, often at the expense of international cooperation and human rights. Patriotism involves a love and loyalty towards one's country, but without necessarily believing it is superior to others or seeking to dominate them.

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What is the difference between nationalism and patriotism?

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During his presidency, Donald Trump said, “We’re putting America first … we’re taking care of ourselves for a change,” and then declared, “ I’m a nationalist .” In another speech , he stated that under his watch, the U.S. had “ embrace[d] the doctrine of patriotism .”

Trump is now running for president again. When he announced his candidacy, he stated that he “ need[s] every patriot on board because this is not just a campaign, this is a quest to save our country.”

One week later he dined in Mar-a-Lago with Nick Fuentes , a self-described nationalist who’s been banned from Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and other platforms for using racist and antisemitic language .

Afterward, Trump confirmed that meeting but did not denounce Fuentes, despite calls for him to do so .

The words nationalism and patriotism are sometimes used as synonyms, such as when Trump and his supporters describe his America First agenda. But many political scientists , including me , don’t typically see those two terms as equivalent – or even compatible.

There is a difference, and it’s important, not just to scholars but to regular citizens as well.

Devotion to a people

To understand what nationalism is, it’s useful to understand what a nation is – and isn’t.

A nation is a group of people who share a history, culture, language, religion or some combination thereof.

A country , which is sometimes called a state in political science terminology, is an area of land that has its own government.

A nation-state is a homogeneous political entity mostly comprising a single nation. Nation-states are rare , because nearly every country is home to more than one national group. One example of a nation-state would be North Korea , where almost all residents are ethnic Koreans.

The United States is neither a nation nor a nation-state. Rather, it is a country of many different groups of people who have a variety of shared histories, cultures, languages and religions.

Some of those groups are formally recognized by the federal government, such as the Navajo Nation and the Cherokee Nation . Similarly, in Canada, the French-speaking Québécois are recognized as being a distinct “ nation within a united Canada .”

Nationalism is, per one dictionary definition, “ loyalty and devotion to a nation .” It is a person’s strong affinity for those who share the same history, culture, language or religion. Scholars understand nationalism as exclusive , boosting one identity group over – and at times in direct opposition to – others.

The Oath Keepers and Proud Boys – 10 of whom were convicted of seditious conspiracy for their role in the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol – are both examples of white nationalist groups, which believe that immigrants and people of color are a threat to their ideals of civilization.

Trump has described the events that took place on Jan. 6, 2021, as having occurred “ Peacefully & Patrioticly ”. He has described those who have been imprisoned as “ great patriots ” and has said that he would pardon “ a large portion of them ” if elected in 2024.

There are many other nationalisms beyond white nationalism. The Nation of Islam , for instance, is an example of a Black nationalist group. The Anti-Defamation League and the Southern Poverty Law Center have both characterized it as a Black supremacist hate group for its anti-white prejudices.

In addition to white and Black racial nationalisms , there are also ethnic and lingustic nationalisms, which typically seek greater autonomy for – and the eventual independence of – certain national groups. Examples include the Bloc Québécois , the Scottish Nationalist Party and Plaid Cymru – the Party of Wales , which are nationalist political parties that respectively advocate for the Québécois of Québéc, the Scots of Scotland and the Welsh of Wales.

Devotion to a place

In contrast to nationalism’s loyalty for or devotion to one’s nation, patriotism is, per the same dictionary, “ love for or devotion to one’s country .” It comes from the word patriot , which itself can be traced back to the Greek word patrios , which means “of one’s father.”

In other words, patriotism has historically meant a love for and devotion to one’s fatherland , or country of origin.

Patriotism encompasses devotion to the country as a whole – including all the people who live within it. Nationalism refers to devotion to only one group of people over all others.

An example of patriotism would be Martin Luther King Jr.’s “ I Have a Dream ” speech, in which he recites the first verse of the patriotic song “ America (My Country ‘Tis of Thee) .” In his “ Letter from Birmingham Jail ,” King describes “nationalist groups” as being “ made up of people who have lost faith in America .”

George Orwell, the author of “ Animal Farm ” and “ Nineteen Eighty-Four ,” describes patriotism as “ devotion to a particular place and a particular way of life.”

He contrasted that with nationalism, which he describes as “the habit of identifying oneself with a single nation or other unit, placing it beyond good and evil and recognizing no other duty than that of advancing its interests.”

Nationalism vs. patriotism

Adolf Hitler’s rise in Germany was accomplished by perverting patriotism and embracing nationalism. According to Charles de Gaulle , who led Free France against Nazi Germany during World War II and later became president of France, “ Patriotism is when love of your own people comes first; nationalism, when hate for people other than your own comes first .”

The tragedy of the Holocaust was rooted in the nationalistic belief that certain groups of people were inferior. While Hitler is a particularly extreme example , in my own research as a human rights scholar , I have found that even in contemporary times, countries with nationalist leaders are more likely to have bad human rights records.

After World War II, President Harry Truman signed the Marshall Plan , which would provide postwar aid to Europe. The intent of the program was to help European countries “ break away from the self-defeating actions of narrow nationalism .”

For Truman, putting America first did not mean exiting the global stage and sowing division at home with nationalist actions and rhetoric . Rather, he viewed the “principal concern of the people of the United States” to be “the creation of conditions of enduring peace throughout the world.” For him, patriotically putting the interests of his country first meant fighting against nationalism.

This view is in line with that of French President Emmanuel Macron , who has stated that “ patriotism is the exact opposite of nationalism .”

“ Nationalism,” he says, “is a betrayal of patriotism .”

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Patriotism vs. Nationalism: What’s The Difference?

You’ve probably heard of public servants carrying out great acts of patriotism . You’ve probably also heard of concerns of a rising wave of nationalism around the world. Yes, both words involve some form of pride in one’s country, but there is an incredibly important distinction to be made between the two.

Historically, both patriotism and nationalism were used roughly in the same way. But they significantly diverged along the way, and one has a much more positive connotation than the other. Do you know which is which?

In this article, we’ll explain the difference between patriotism and nationalism , the different forms they can take and what they can lead to, as well as how to use them correctly.

What is the difference between patriotism and nationalism ?

The word patriotism is a noun that means “devoted love, support, and defense of one’s country; national loyalty.”

The term often brings to mind people directly involved with the defense of a nation, namely military service members as well as state and local government representatives. For example: The soldiers showed exemplary patriotism defending their country from attack.

Patriotism, however, can take many other forms outside serving in the military and public office. Diplomats , teachers, first responders , and so many more all exemplify patriotism in the many forms of good they do in service of their communities.

There are millions of government employees, as well as millions who volunteer their time in the interest of their country. Individual acts of pride, such as displaying an American flag at one’s home, are also examples of patriotism .

The word patriotism is first recorded in the early 1700s. Interestingly, by the 1770s, the word patriot could refer to “a member of a resistance movement, a freedom fighter,” specifically those who fought against the British in the war for independence—associations that persist today.

Patriotism is based on patriot , which is recorded in the 1500s. This word ultimately derives from Greek patriṓtēs , “fellow-countryman or lineage member.” The root of this word, in turn, means “ fatherland .” Paternal , patriarchy , and even English’s own father are related.

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In most contexts today, nationalism is “the policy or doctrine of asserting the interests of one’s own nation viewed as separate from the interests of other nations or the common interests of all nations.” In short, nationalism is a kind of excessive, aggressive patriotism.

Modern nationalism is rooted, in part, in French and American revolutions that fought for the sovereignty of their people over monarchies. This historic nationalism is generally viewed favorably, a cornerstone of Western liberalism and democracy.

However, fascist regimes have merged the fervor of nationalism with the notions of superiority, especially when it comes to ethnicity and religion. In such contexts,  “patriots” can become those who happened to agree with you or look like you, and “traitors” those who do not.

This form of nationalism is what happens when patriotism gets out of hand and morphs into something more exclusionary, isolationist, and … well, chauvinist . For example, The lecturer’s speech on immigration and foreign policy quickly devolved into nationalism , blaming undocumented migrants for the climbing unemployment rate, making much of the audience feel uneasy .

Such nationalism can result in jingoism , which is a form of extreme nationalism promoting vigilant preparedness for war and an aggressive foreign policy. It can also result in  isolationism , or “the policy or doctrine of isolating one’s country from the affairs of other nations by declining to enter into alliances, foreign economic commitments, international agreement.”

Recorded in the early 1800s, nationalism , as you probably guessed, is based on nation , ultimately from a Latin word meaning “birth, tribe.”

How to use patriotism vs. nationalism

When using these words, it’s important to keep context, and connotation , in mind:

Patriotism generally has a positive connotation. It’s used for various positive sentiments, attitudes, and actions involving loving one’s country and serving the great good of all its people.

Nationalism generally has a negative connotation. It’s used for political ideologies and movements that a more extreme and exclusionary love of one’s country—at the expense of foreigners, immigrants, and even people in a country who aren’t believed to belong in some way, often racial and religious grounds.

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Difference between Nationalism and Patriotism

Difference between Nationalism and Patriotism is explained here in detail. The difference between nationalism and patriotism is that the patriot is proud of his country for what it does, and the nationalist is proud of his country no matter what it does.The difference between Nationalism vs Patriotism given here can help the UPSC Civil Service exam aspirants to understand the basics better and know their comparisons thoroughly.

Aspirants would find this article very helpful while preparing for the IAS Exam .

Difference between Nationalism and Patriotism – UPSC Notes:- Download PDF Here

The differences between Nationalism and Patriotism are:

These are the main differences between Nationalism and Patriotism.The differences given in the above table can help the UPSC Civil Service Exam aspirants to answer any related questions easily in the exams.

After learning about the Nationalism and Patriotism difference, it is better to know the details of Political Science and International Relations syllabus, optional books and the strategies for UPSC Civil Service Exam. Visit the below-given links to learn about Causes of Indian National Movement, Moderate phase of Indian National Movement, Extremist Period of Indian National Movement in detail, along with other information. Also refer the links given below, for NCERT Notes on Modern Indian History, Medieval Indian History and Ancient Indian History. Also refer to the links of Sociology syllabus for UPSC Civil Service Exam and understand the differences between Political Science and Sociology.

• Political Science and International Relations Optional – Syllabus for UPSC Mains Exam
• Political Science and International Relations – Strategy, Book List etc
• NCERT Notes: Moderate Phase of Indian National Movement
• NCERT Notes: Causes of Indian National Movement
• NCERT Notes: Indian National Movement – Extremist Period
• NCERT Notes: Revolutionary Movement in Indian Freedom Struggle
• NCERT Notes – Modern Indian History
• NCERT Notes – Ancient Indian History
• NCERT Notes – Medieval Indian History
• Sociology Syllabus for UPSC Exam
• Difference between Sociology and Political Science
• Complete List of Difference between Articles – History, Polity, Economics, Geography and more

The above details would help candidates prepare for  UPSC 2024 .

Frequently Asked Questions on Difference between Nationalism and Patriotism

Q 1. what is the main difference between nationalism and patriotism, q 2. are patriotism and nationalism synonyms.

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The Difference Between 'Patriotism' and 'Nationalism'

One of the many difficulties inherent in creating a dictionary that accurately reflects the language of any large group of people is that these people may not all view certain words and values as equal. Nationalism and patriotism present us with an appropriately problematic pair with which to illustrate this. Are these words synonymous? Is one an insult, and the other not? Can either of them mean different things to different people?

How does the speaker or writer define them?

Let’s take a few minutes to go over the respective histories of these two words to see where and when they shared meaning and in what senses they have drifted apart.

Patriotism is the older of the two words, with published written evidence dating back to the middle of the 17th century. Patriotism came from adding the suffix of - ism to the existing word patriot , which itself came into English from the French patriote , and may be traced back further to the Greek word patrios (“of one’s father”).

There is hardly any judicious man but knoweth, that it was neither learning, piety, nor  patriotism that perswaded any of that Nation to Presbytery…. —C.N., Reasons Why the Supreme Authority of the Three Nations (for the time) is not in the Parliament , 1653 There hath been in London, and repairing to it, for these many yeers together, a knot of Scotish bankers, collybists, or coinecoursers, of traffickers in Merchandise to and againe, and of men of other professions, who…hug all unto themselves; that, for no respect of vertue, honor, kinred,  patriotism, or whatever else…whereof those quomodocunquizing clusterfists and rapacious varlets have given of late such cannibal-like proofs, by their inhumanity and obdurate carriage towards some (whose shoos-strings they are not worthy to unty) that were it not that a more able pen then mine, will assuredly not faile to jerk them on all sides…. —Thomas Urquhart, Ekskybalauron , 1652

(Quick side note: the Urquhart citation above serves two purposes, being both our earliest written evidence of the word patriotism and a fine excuse for drawing the reader’s attention to the beautifully splenetic turn of phrase “quomodocunquizing clusterfists.” These two words are archaic enough to only be defined in the Oxford English Dictionary, which informs us that the former is “that makes money in any possible way,” and the latter is “a ‘close-fisted’ or grasping fellow.” Should you ever find yourself in need of an insult that is not hackneyed and stale we wholeheartedly recommend quomodocunquizing clusterfist . End of side note.)

We do not have any evidence of nationalism occurring until just before the 19th century, almost a hundred and fifty years after patriotism . And in its early use, from the end of the 18th century onward for a number of decades, nationalism appears to have been largely interchangeable with patriotism , with both words primarily being used to refer to a general love of one’s country.

Nationalism must involve the consecrated devotion of a responsive citizenship, sound policies must have universal faith and unsound vagaries must have universal condemnation. — The Marion County News (Hamilton, AL), 1 Jan. 1820 Modern France, instead of diminishing, has, if possible, encreased this nationalism . Removed from his oppression and atrocities, they see nothing but the magnificence, the success and the splendor of Bonaparte, and I assure you that every poor, ignorant, stupid Creole, when he hears of an achievement of this their Demi God, evinces a lively interest, an exultation as if some choice unlooked for gift of heaven had blessed his family. — Poulson’s American Daily Advertiser (Philadelphia, PA), 11 Oct. 1811 If there be not Conservatism, and Nationalism, and Patriotism enough in the North to rise up and overwhelm with numbers the spirit that points to the the election of anybody but Fremont (or of Fremont) as the prelude to civil war, we had better seek to save as much fratricidal blood as possible in a peaceable line of immediate separation. — New York Daily News , 1 Jul. 1856

These two words may have shared a distinct sense in the 19th century, but they appear to have grown apart since. Or rather, it would be more accurate to say that only nationalism has grown apart, since the meaning of patriotism has remained largely unchanged. There are still obvious areas of overlap: we define patriotism as “love for or devotion to one’s country” and nationalism in part as “loyalty and devotion to a nation.” But the definition of nationalism also includes “exalting one nation above all others and placing primary emphasis on promotion of its culture and interests as opposed to those of other nations or supranational groups.” This exclusionary aspect is not shared by patriotism .

A somewhat subtler difference between the two words may be found in their modifiers and the ideas to which each is connected. When we examine large bodies of recent text we see that patriotism is more often used in a general sense, often in conjunction with such words as bravery , valor , duty , and devotion . Nationalism , however, tends to find itself modified by specific movements, most frequently of a political bent.

In one respect, the insanities of 1947 are reverberating now with growing Hindu nationalism in a professedly secular India. – Kashmir Monitor , 14 Aug. 2017 Today, more than two decades into a democratic South Africa, Afrikaner nationalism has been severely diminished and along with it the standing of Afrikaans in the public sector. — The New Age (Johannesburg, South Africa), 2 May 2017 Canadian Nationalism emerged 150 years ago, and has always been defended and protected not only by the spoken word but also, if required, by a dedicated military. —Rosie Sanchez, Prairie Post East (Swift Current, Sask.), 7 Jul 2017 Founded in 2014—two years after Burma experienced religiously motivated riots largely targeting the Muslim minority—and now with sub-chapters across the country, Ma Ba Tha has become virtually synonymous with Buddhist nationalism. — Asia News Monitor (Bangkok), 7 Jul. 2017 Over the last few years, however, a strong contender in the form of Tamil nationalism has emerged because Tamil Nadu got into river water disputes with all the neighbouring states and the neighbours did not seem to care much for Dravidian niceties although Telugus, Kannadigas and Malayalis are putatively Dravidian. — The Times of India (New Delhi), 4 Mar. 2017 His defeat by Plaid Cymru’s Gwynfor Evans at Carmarthen in 1966 stemmed not from any upsurge in Welsh nationalism, but rather a sudden deterioration in the fortunes of Harold Wilson’s government. — The Telegraph (London, UK), 5 Apr. 2017

So now that we’ve briefly looked over the history of patriotism and nationalism can we draw any firm conclusions about whether one or the other is pejorative? The answer is: it depends. It seems certain that, at least with nationalism , it may mean different things to different people. Of the six different kinds of X nationalism cited just above, it is likely that most people would find some politically questionable, and others not. Patriotism is rarely used in these contexts.

In U.S. usage nationalism is now perhaps most frequently associated with white nationalism , and has considerably negative connotations.

Some of us imagined that we dented the nationalism, hatred and racism that roiled the world in the first half of the 20th century. —Jeanette Friedman-Sieradski (letter to editor), The Times-Tribune (Scranton, PA), 12 Mar. 2017 And while coded appeals to racism or nationalism aren’t new—two words: Southern strategy—overt calls to temporarily bar Muslims from entry to the United States or questioning a federal judge’s impartiality based on his Mexican heritage are new. —Jim Rutenberg, The New York Times , 8 Aug. 2016

As a dictionary, we must weigh all matters of semantic and regional difference. Therefore we can offer no firm guidance as to whether or not nationalism qualifies as an insult across the board. We can, however, advocate for the revival of the tradition of insult with precision.

May we again recommend quomodocunquizing clusterfist ?

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