Social Studies 20-1 Review (copy)

Some people believe that nationalism is the most powerful political force because at some point, ultranationalists move from valuing their own nation and its interests to hostility toward people of other nations.  This hostility can endanger international peace. In Social Studies 20 you were introduced to the concept of ultranationalism, when national interest and ideals become extreme.  You also touched on what ultranationalism is, how it develops and historical/contemporary responses.  This information will be revisited in Social Studies 30 so pay careful attention!

Ultranationalism, like nationalism involves the devotion to one's nation, but is an extreme form of nationalism. it is often characterized by authoritarianism, efforts toward reduction of immigration, oppression of non-native populations, etc.  Ultranationalism often involves the people being fanatically loyal to their nation, and hostile and racist to others nations.

Ultranationalists often promote their own national interests - economic, social and cultural - while ignoring the national interests of other citizens.  This exaggerated sense of national interest can cause war, succession and genocide. Throughout history, societies have experienced ultranationalism and all its negative effects, whether it was Russian, under Stalin, or Germany under Hitler.

Russia under Stalin

At the beginning of the 20th century, Russia was an absolute monarchy (remember the French Revolution). The Russian Revolution in 1918 resulted in the assassination of the czar and royal family and launched a civil war that brought even more suffering to millions of people who had already endured great hardship during World War 1.

By 1928, Joseph Stalin, a communist, had emerged as the country's leader. One of Stalin's first acts was to confiscate land owned by farmers and create collective farms owned by the state. Those who objected were executed, and an estimated five million people were deported to forced labour camps in Siberia or Central Asia.

Germany under Hitler

In Germany, Adolf Hitler promised that he would restore people's national pride by making their country the leading nation on earth. A skilled speaker who knew how to capture the attention of an audience, Hitler said he would do this by:

• refusing to recognize the Treaty of Versailles

• rebuilding Germany's armed forces and reclaiming lost territories

• restoring the superiority of the "Aryan race" - white Europeans

Nazi propaganda experts used radio, movies, public address systems, and giant posters to present Hitler's image and message to the public. Party members organized central and neighbourhood mass meetings attracting audiences of up to 100,000. At these meetings, crowds chanted, "Today Germany, tomorrow the whole world."

Please watch the following pictorial essay:

Hitler's Rise to Power