Essay Question: Explain how nationalism contributed to major conflicts in the modern world.

Introduction thesis: Outline a clear thesis statement that introduces the role of nationalism as a key cause of conflicts such as World War I, the breakup of empires, and regional tensions.

Point: Explain how nationalism contributed to the outbreak of World War I.

Evidence: Consider the rise of patriotic fervor, militarism, and competition among European nations.

Analysis: Discuss how nationalist sentiments increased tensions, led to arms races, and pushed countries towards war.

Point: Explain how nationalism contributed to the breakup of empires such as the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian Empires.

Evidence: Consider independence movements and ethnic nationalist groups.

Analysis: Discuss how nationalist aspirations led to demands for independence and the disintegration of multi-ethnic empires.

Counter-argument: Some historians argue that other factors such as economic interests, imperial rivalries, and political alliances were more influential than nationalism alone.

Discussion: Consider how these factors interacted with nationalism to cause conflicts.