Explanation:

First, the rise of NATIONALISM is historically specific. Nationalism emerged in the late eighteenth century, appearing first in Europe, then in North and South America. In the TWENTIETH century, nationalism spread to many Asian countries and to the new independent nations of Africa. Second, nationalism exemplifies an ideological movement, PROMOTING the autonomy, unity, and sovereignty of those gathered in a single territory. A nation's citizens are believed to be joined not by ethnicity, but by a single public culture and a set of shared political goals. Finally, nationalism evokes a strong collective sentiment. While ruling elites may sow the first seeds of this fervor, it is ARGUED that all citizens come to experience a shared collective identity and to embrace a common national purpose. (Calhoun 1993 or Hutchinson and Smith 1994 offer thorough discussions of nationalism.) The third element of nationalism, a strong collective sentiment, provides the focus for this entry. This article explores the most powerful expressions of nationalistic sentiment—a nation's symbols. The SECTIONS which follow highlight the ways in which national symbols bring nationalism alive.