Introduction:
Nationalism is an ideology or movement that promotes the interests of a particular nation, especially with the aim of gaining and maintaining self-governance or sovereignty over its homeland. Nationalism was initially associated with liberal, democratic sentiments in Europe. However, by the last quarter of the 19th century, nationalism had undergone significant changes in its character, and it no longer retained its idealistic, liberal, democratic sentiments as it did before.

Nationalism's shift from idealistic to pragmatic:
During the last quarter of the 19th century, nationalism underwent a significant shift from idealistic to pragmatic. Some of the factors that contributed to this shift are:

1. Economic Interests:
Nationalism became more focused on economic interests rather than liberal democratic ideals. For instance, Germany's unification in 1871 was driven by its economic interests to create a bigger market for its industrial goods.

2. Military Strength:
Nationalism also became more militaristic in character and appealed to popular sentiments of national pride and glory. Nationalism was used to mobilize people for military campaigns. For instance, Italy's unification was achieved through military campaigns, and the Italian nationalist movement was characterized by its romanticized view of the past and its emphasis on military strength.

3. Colonialism:
Nationalism was also closely associated with colonialism. European powers used nationalism to justify their colonial expansion and domination over other nations. For instance, the British Empire used nationalism to legitimize its colonial rule over India.

4. Racism:
Nationalism also became associated with racism and exclusionary policies towards minorities. Nationalists believed that their nation was superior to other nations and that certain races were inferior to others. For instance, the rise of anti-Semitic policies in Europe during the late 19th century was fueled by nationalist sentiments.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, nationalism underwent significant changes during the last quarter of the 19th century. Nationalism became more focused on economic interests, militarism, colonialism, and exclusionary policies towards minorities. Nationalism was no longer associated with liberal democratic sentiments, but rather with pragmatic goals aimed at gaining power and dominance over other nations.

Sentiment of Nationalism in the first half of the 19th century: 

• Towards the last quarter of the 19th century, nationalism could not retain its idealistic liberal-democratic sentiment of the first half of the century, but became a narrow belief with inadequate ends. 

• Nationalist groups became increasingly intolerant, which leads to war. 

• Major European powers manipulated the nationalist aspirations to further their own imperialist aims. 

• Source of nationalist tension in Europe was the area called Balkans. 

•  Idea of romantic nationalism in the Balkan together with disintegration of the Ottoman Empire made this region very explosive. 

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