ABSTRACT
In contemporary nationalist politics, the concepts of the nation-state and homo- geneous national identity have sidelined the idea of multi-layered identities. The identity of women is, of course, central to nationalism and the creation of states, and one of my central interests lies in how gender is implicated in, and shapes the nature and outcomes of, the politics of the state. Mainstream nationalism litera- ture offers a number of competing explanations for the origins of nationalism and national identity, and the influence of primordial sentiments, modernization and demands for self-determination. The literature deals with the nature and implica- tions of nationalism in a variety of ways, but mainly by describing and critiquing the elitist versions of nationalist stories without attempting to contextualize the lived experiences of the men and women who actually wove the national narrative. By analysing nationalism through the gender lens we can gain an alternate perspec- tive of state behaviour in the international system in relation to justice and equity. In turn, this will enrich diverse organizational structures and political strategies that not only empower women, but also promote the advancement of all citizens regardless of their gender.
