Towards a realist theory of nationalism: Exploring realpolitik and the threshold principle in nineteenth century nationalism

This article critiques Ernest Gellner's definition of nationalism for not fully capturing the intricacies of nineteenth-century nationalist movements and introduces “realist nationalism” as a more comprehensive framework. By integrating Eric Hobsbawm's threshold principle with the realism prevalent in international relations, this concept emphasises the strategic importance of power and security in nationalist endeavours. Through a detailed historical analysis, the study demonstrates how pre-World War II nationalist movements and state formations were significantly influenced by realpolitik, thereby challenging the conventional dichotomy between nationalism and imperialism. “Realist nationalism” provides a nuanced historical understanding of nationalism's interplay with geopolitical dynamics, offering insights that illuminate the complexities of nationalist movements both in the past and their continuing relevance today.