Nationalism Isn’t Patriotism, Nationalism Lead To Nazi Germany

It is more than slightly concerning that so many who support Donald Trump think it’s okay for him to call himself a “nationalist” as he did at the rally for Ted Cruz in Houston, Texas. In getting replies on Twitter, it seems that many equate nationalism with patriotism.

Patriotism is the support of one’s country. Nationalism is an extreme form of patriotism, and that is not a good thing. It means supporting one’s nation despite what it is doing. It is exactly what happened in Nazi Germany after the Great Depression and leading up to World War II. It is a word filled with hatred and fear. It is a word that has been adopted by the vilest in the country — white nationalists. So, when Trump openly, and proudly, admits to being a nationalist, not only should we be concerned, we should be revolted.

Trump is doing exactly what Adolf Hitler did in Germany. And no, this isn’t hyperbole. This isn’t just saying someone I don’t like is Hitler. This is stating a fact backed up by historical evidence.

In an online essay from Mt. Holyoke, it is written:

“German nationalism that began to develop before World War II was a major motivation behind many individuals who joined the Nazi Party. Adolf Hitler, the leader of the Nazi Party, used his profound oratory skills to manipulate…