ABSTRACT
This chapter investigates Dutch citizens’ perceptions of national and supranational (European) identities. National identities are historically important in Europe, thanks to the variety of cultures with their own language, religion, style of living, and national characteristics. Since the mid-twentieth century, however, important changes have taken place in the European economic, cultural and political landscape due to the construction of the European Union. The experiences during World War II, especially, empowered the process of political integration within Europe, as this integration was thought to prevent conflict and a new world war, and as it was expected to further economic and social prosperity.
