Nationalism

For the people being conquered, imperialistic rule usually does not sit well. After a time, the conquered people develop a strong kindred spirit due to their common oppression by the imperialists. They develop a strong sense of identity based on who they are as a nation (the people). "Nationalism" can be defined as pride in one's own nation. Nationalism can grow from imperialism.

Yet in the case of Germany in the 1930's, nationalism within Germany actually led to imperialism (invasion of Poland). Therefore, we must draw the arrow in both directions. Imperialism can lead to nationalism and nationalism can ultimately lead to imperialism.

Remember that a "nation" is not always the same as a "country". A country refers to a given area of land and includes all of the people living within its borders. A nation can refer to a group of people who share the same culture, the same langauge, the same ethnicity and the same religion. This group of people may or may not live within the borders of a single country. Likewise, rarely is a nation also a country. Japan is about as close as one can get to finding a nation that is also a country. Japan is more than 95% ethnic Japanese, most speak the same langauge (Japanese) and many practice the same Shinto religion. Today, Japan has a strong sense of nationalism. Prior to WWII, this strong sense of nationalism led to imperialism. Japan invaded many of its neighbors. But Japan now understands the ramifications of invading other countries in the modern world. It is not something that they are likely to undertake-- they are smarter than that.