The word 'patriotism' comes form a Greek word meaning fatherland. For most of history love of fatherland or homeland signifed an attachment to the physical features of the land. Bit that notion changed after the eighteenth century, when the idea of democracy, socialism. and communism strongly emerged it political thought. Patriotism was still a love of one's country that included connections to the land and people, but then also included its customs and traditions, pride in its history, and devotion to its welfare. Today most people agree that patriotsm also involves service to their country, but many disagree on how to best perform such service.- Some believe that the national government speaks for a country; therefor, all its citizens should actively support government policies and actions. Others argue that a true patriot speaks out when convinced that :heir country' is following an unwise or unjust action.
