After discussing embryonic conceptions of nationhood in late-medieval and early-modern Europe, he parcels the history of the nation-state into seven consecutive (and sensibly tailored) eras.

In “Nationalism: A World History,” Eric Storm examines how nations became the dominant form of political organization of our era.

But the more important role of paranoid nationalism is as a tool to dismantle the checks and balances that underpin good governance: a free press, independent courts, NGOs and a loyal opposition ...

Wang Xiaodong, once called the standard-bearer of Chinese nationalism, now fends off criticisms of being too moderate, even a traitor. “They’ve forgotten,” he said, “I created them.” ...