Theories of Nation Formation and Case Selection: The Meaning of an Alternative Model

In: Nationalities papers: the journal of nationalism and ethnicity, Band 26, Heft 4, S. 599-613

Abstract

An alternative to modernist & primordialist approaches to nation formation is presented. An overview of the USSR's assimilation strategies for the various ethnic communities of the Caucasus is provided. The Yugoslav government's participation in nation formation after WWII's termination is studied to determine what factors contributed to the successful formation of a Macedonian nation & the failed attempt at forming a Montenegrin nation. It is contended that a hegemonic cultural framework -- an official Macedonian language -- advanced the formation of a Macedonian nation. Conversely, the Yugoslav state's inability to locate a similar cultural framework in Montenegro resulted in an unsuccessful attempt at nation formation. Differences between the Caucasus-Macedonian-Montenegrin, modernist, & primordialist approaches are discussed. It is concluded that multiple models may legitimately explain processes of nation formation. 35 References. J. W. Parker