Jingoism denotes excessive or irrational patriotism which leads to blind adherence of one to their own nation, simply because it is one’s own. It connotes ultra nationalism-nationalism to the extent that all other possible identities of an individual are subverted and all are to own a single identity that is of a nation.
Origin of the word “Jingoism”The term apparently originated in England during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877–78, when the British Mediterranean squadron was sent to Gallipoli to restrain Russia and war fever was aroused. Supporters of the British government’s policy toward Russia came to be called jingoes as a result of the phrase “by jingo,” which appeared in the refrain of a popular song:
“We don’t want to fight, yet by jingo, if we do,
We’ve got the ships, we’ve got the men,
And got the money, too!”
Fallouts of Jingoism
- Xenophobia: Jingoism can breed intolerance and hostility towards people from other countries, cultures, and religions.
- Nationalism: Excessive jingoism can promote a narrow-minded and exclusionary form of nationalism that prioritizes the interests of one’s own country over those of others.
- Militarism: Jingoism can lead to an excessive focus on military strength and a willingness to use force to achieve national goals.
- Isolationism: Jingoism can also result in a desire to withdraw from the international community and pursue a policy of isolationism.
- Diplomatic tensions: Aggressive jingoistic rhetoric can escalate tensions between countries and undermine efforts to resolve conflicts peacefully.
- War: In extreme cases, jingoism can lead to war and the loss of human lives.
Jingoism: Case Studies
- United States: In recent years, there has been a surge in jingoistic sentiment in the US, particularly in the wake of the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Some politicians and media outlets have promoted a narrative of American exceptionalism and a “us vs. them” mentality, which has led to increased polarization and hostility towards immigrants and other countries.
- Russia: The Russian government, under President Vladimir Putin, has also been accused of promoting jingoistic rhetoric and policies, particularly in the context of its interventions in Ukraine and Syria. Putin has emphasized Russia’s historical greatness and its need to defend itself against Western aggression.
- China: The Chinese government, under President Xi Jinping, has been accused of promoting a jingoistic and nationalist agenda, particularly in the context of its territorial disputes in the South China Sea and its conflict with Taiwan. China has also been accused of engaging in cyber espionage and stealing intellectual property from other countries.
