Exiled Among Nations: German and Mennonite Mythologies in a Transnational Age

This transnational study explores how religious migrants harnessed the global spread of nationalism to secure practical objectives and create local mythologies, while governments and aid organizations used diasporic groups for their own purposes. It highlights the importance of local and religious counter-stories that run in parallel to nationalist narratives.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 359 pages
Publication date: 07 October 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

In the modern world, groups of people forge shared identities through various means. This transnational study, which focuses on two communities of German-speaking Mennonites, one composed of voluntary migrants and the other of refugees, explores how religious migrants engage with the phenomenon of nationalism. John P. R. Eicher examines how migrant groups utilize the global spread of nationalism to achieve practical objectives and construct local mythologies. He also uncovers how governments and aid organizations exploit diasporic groups for their own purposes, portraying them as either enemies or heroes in national and religious mythologies. By highlighting the significance of local and religious counter-stories that run parallel to nationalist narratives, Exiled Among Nations provides valuable insights into acts of resistance, flight, and diaspora in the contemporary world.

Introduction:
The modern world is characterized by the proliferation of diverse groups of people who come together to form shared identities. These identities are often shaped by a combination of cultural, social, and religious factors, and they play a crucial role in shaping individuals' sense of belonging and self-worth. In this essay, we will explore how groups of people fashion shared identities in the modern world.

Migrant Groups:
One of the primary ways in which groups of people fashion shared identities in the modern world is through migration. Migration can be a voluntary or forced movement, and it often involves people leaving their homes and communities to seek better opportunities or escape persecution. Migrant groups often face challenges such as language barriers, cultural differences, and discrimination, which can make it difficult for them to integrate into their new communities. However, they also have the opportunity to create new connections and forge new identities that are based on their shared experiences and values.

Nationalism:
Nationalism is another factor that contributes to the formation of shared identities among groups of people. Nationalism is a political ideology that emphasizes the importance of a nation-state and the unity of its people. Nationalism can be expressed through various forms, such as flags, anthems, and symbols, and it can be used to promote a sense of national pride and identity. Nationalism can also be used to justify political and economic policies that prioritize the interests of the nation-state over those of individual citizens.

Religion:
Religion is another powerful force that contributes to the formation of shared identities among groups of people. Religion provides a sense of purpose, meaning, and community for its followers, and it can be used to promote a sense of shared identity among members of a particular religious group. Religion can also be used to justify social and political policies that align with religious beliefs and values.

Counter-Stories:
In addition to nationalist narratives and religious beliefs, groups of people also fashion shared identities through the creation of counter-stories. Counter-stories are stories that challenge or undermine dominant narratives and beliefs. They can be used to promote social justice, equality, and diversity, and they can also be used to challenge the power of dominant groups.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, groups of people fashion shared identities in the modern world through a combination of factors such as migration, nationalism, religion, and counter-stories. These identities are essential for shaping individuals' sense of belonging and self-worth, and they play a crucial role in promoting social justice, equality, and diversity. As the world continues to become increasingly diverse, it is important to recognize and celebrate the diversity of shared identities and to work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

Weight: 526g
Dimension: 152 x 230 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108731799