what is patriotism

Patriotism is the feeling of love, devotion, and attachment to ones country. It is a combination of different feelings for things such as the countrys history, culture, and people. Patriotism may be strengthened by adherence to a national religion or even a theocracy. However, patriotism is different from nationalism, which is inseparable from the desire for power. Patriotism involves special affection for ones own country, a sense of personal identification with the country, and special concern for the well-being of the country. While patriotism and nationalism are often taken to be synonymous, patriotism has its origins some 2,000 years prior to the rise of nationalism in the 19th century. Some people argue against patriotism of any sort, while others consider it a natural and appropriate expression of attachment to the country in which they were born and raised. Advocates of forms of constitutional patriotism often cite the United States as an example of a non-national polity held together by an allegiance to shared values and institutions.