Question
DATE: 23/7/2019 WORLD RUCTIONS: Answer QUESTION ONE and any other TWO QUESTIONS a) Discuss liberal and Marxist theories of nationalism (15 mark b) Examine development of nationalism in West Africa Assess the growth of nationalism in South Africa in the 20^th century (20 mark Explain the factors behind the evolution of Arab nationalism in the 20^th century in the (20 mark Examine the nationalist struggle in India in the 20^th century (20 marl Evaluate the role of corporatism in nationalism in Latin America (20 mark TIME: 8.30-1030 A.M
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Cedric
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Answer
## Question 1(a): Liberal and Marxist Theories of Nationalism**Liberal Nationalism:**Liberal nationalism views the nation as a voluntary association of individuals bound by shared values, culture, and often language. It emphasizes civic nationalism, where citizenship is based on individual rights and consent rather than ethnicity or descent. Key tenets include:* **Self-determination:** Nations have the right to govern themselves without external interference. This principle supports the creation of nation-states where national boundaries align with state borders.* **Popular sovereignty:** The government's legitimacy derives from the consent of the governed. This implies democratic institutions and representative government.* **Individual rights:** Liberal nationalism emphasizes individual liberties and freedoms, such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly. These rights are considered fundamental and universal.* **Cosmopolitanism:** While valuing national identity, liberal nationalism often acknowledges the importance of international cooperation and peaceful coexistence between nations. It can be seen as compatible with globalism.**Marxist Nationalism:**Marxist theory views nationalism through the lens of class struggle and historical materialism. It sees nationalism as a product of specific historical and economic conditions, particularly the rise of capitalism. Key aspects include:* **False consciousness:** Nationalism is seen as a form of false consciousness that obscures the real underlying class conflicts within society. It diverts attention from the exploitation of the proletariat by the bourgeoisie by promoting a sense of unity across classes based on national identity.* **Tool of the bourgeoisie:** Marxists argue that the ruling class uses nationalism to maintain its power and control. By promoting national unity, the bourgeoisie can suppress class consciousness and prevent the proletariat from uniting against them.* **Product of capitalism:** Nationalism is seen as a consequence of the development of capitalism, which requires larger markets and unified economic systems. The nation-state emerges as a necessary framework for capitalist expansion.* **Internationalism:** Ultimately, Marxism advocates for internationalism and the overthrow of capitalism, leading to a classless society where national boundaries become irrelevant. Nationalism is seen as a temporary phenomenon that will eventually be superseded by class solidarity.## Question 2: Development of Nationalism in West AfricaNationalism in West Africa developed primarily as a reaction to colonial rule. Several factors contributed to its growth:* **Shared experience of colonialism:** The oppressive nature of colonial rule fostered a sense of shared identity and common purpose among diverse ethnic groups within each colony. This shared experience provided a foundation for nationalist movements.* **Rise of educated elites:** Western-educated Africans played a crucial role in articulating nationalist ideologies and organizing resistance movements. They exposed the contradictions between colonial rhetoric and practice, inspiring others to fight for independence.* **Influence of Pan-Africanism:** The Pan-African movement, which advocated for the unity and liberation of all African peoples, provided intellectual and political inspiration for West African nationalists.* **Role of traditional institutions:** While often undermined by colonial powers, traditional institutions and leaders sometimes played a role in mobilizing resistance and fostering nationalist sentiment.* **Economic exploitation:** The exploitative economic policies of colonial powers fueled resentment and contributed to the growth of nationalist movements demanding economic justice and control over resources.The development of nationalism in West Africa varied across different colonies, influenced by specific local factors and the strategies employed by colonial powers. However, the common thread was the desire for self-determination and an end to colonial domination. This led to the emergence of various nationalist parties and movements that ultimately achieved independence for most West African countries in the mid-20th century.