Terminologies of Nationalism in the Kingdom of Hungary: An empirical approach
Learn why it’s a mistake to begin a discussion of nationalism with a definition of the nation.
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Description
The Kingdom of Hungary has variously been described as a “multi-ethnic nation” and a “multinational state.”
This talk discusses the terminology patriots in the Kingdom of Hungary used to discuss nationality/ethnicity. Magyar (ethnic Hungarian) patriots variously contrasted the “nation” with its component parts, variously described as “nationalities,” “peoples,” “races” and so forth.
By contrast, Slovak patriots, examined as a case study in non-Magyar nationalist terminology, contrasted the “nations” of Hungary with an implicitly de-national state, variously described as a “homeland,” “political organism” or “state.” Different nationalities thus employed different terminologies so as to reserve for themselves the right to define the “nation,” which Hungarians of all communities treated as the most prestigious community, granting it the ability to bestow legitimacy.
The analysis suggests that scholars should avoid “initial definitions” of such terms, but rather treat implicit definitions as an object of study.
Speaker Bios
Alexander Maxwell is senior lecturer in History and director of the Antipodean East European Study Group. He is the author of Choosing Slovakia, Patriots Against Fashion, and Everyday Nationalism in Hungary.