The national movements in Europe present common characteristics.
From the 18th century on, pre-modern collective, ‘ethnic’ identities in Europe were converted into national identities within a new kind of community of equal citizens: the nation. This was the result of a series of objective (political, social and cultural) conditions as well as of national mobilisation efforts. On the second, ‘subjective’ part, there is less consensus than on the first. It implies the presence of so-called nation-builders as well as a conflict of interest and a language conflict. About the same time it involves historical construction (the cultivation of myths and memories) and cultural construction (the nation as an imagined community). Consequently, in spite of the numerous local specific conditions and the historical variables, there are parallels between the national movements.
The protagonists of national movements themselves reject the idea that they might be affected by foreign examples and influences, as this devalues the authenticity and originality of their own nation. Yet, it is very probable that national symbols, discourses and practices migrate across national borders and are adapted to and appropriated in specific local contexts.
This has so far been insufficiently reflected in the relevant scientific research. Moreover, the research is hampered by the condition of the sources and the unsatisfactory collection and disclosure of the relevant data.