nação

Nação is a Portuguese word that generally translates to "nation" in English. It refers to a community of people, often defined by shared characteristics such as language, culture, ethnicity, history, or territory. The concept of nation is complex and can encompass various interpretations, from a purely cultural or ethnic group to a political entity.

In political science, a nation is often distinguished from a state. While a state is a sovereign political organization with defined borders and a government, a nation is a group of people who share a collective identity. Ideally, a nation-state is a political entity where the boundaries of the state align with the boundaries of the nation, meaning the population within a state largely shares a common national identity. However, many states are multinational, containing multiple distinct nations, and conversely, some nations may be spread across several states or lack a state of their own.

The formation of nations is a historical process that has been influenced by various factors, including shared experiences, the development of common languages and literatures, and political movements. National identity is often fostered through symbols, narratives, and institutions that promote a sense of belonging and shared destiny among members of the nation. The concept of nation has been a powerful force in modern history, driving both movements for independence and unification, as well as conflicts and divisions.