The notions of nationalism and patriotism are tightly interrelated and people frequently use them together. There is a slight difference between these concepts, however, they both imply love to one’s land. The only difference between the terms is that nationalism encompasses one’s affection for the culture of their nation, and patriotism is about protection and cherishing one’s country. Protection of one’s language, ethnicity, history or heritage is essential to nationalists. They also care about the protection of human rights and freedoms within their ethnicity which make a way to strengthen the community of people as a nation.
Love for one’s own country is and willingness to sacrifice for its good characterize a true patriot. Patriotism may seem a little controversial if some people treat it as a passion and blind following the ideology. In fact, we envisage patriotism more as we praise our freedom and protect our land and home from intruders. The integrity of one’s country is the prior treasure to the true patriots. Nationalism sometimes is misinterpreted as well. The famous citation of George Orwell linked love to one’s nation with the feeling of superiority over the other nations. At this point, nationalism shall not be confused with Nazism as these two notions actually have very little in common.
Love for one’s country can be inherited and acquired through the lifetime. In some families, patriotism is passed in generations as people show an exceptional devotion to their country and teach children to love it too. Some people discover the essential nature of patriotism with experience. The need to stay free, safe, and integral within one’s land is one of the basic needs for every citizen of their country.