For Americans who haven’t traveled to Europe, the situation across the Atlantic may seem distant, but the Old World has become a simmering powder keg. While social tensions in the U.S. are concerning, they are far worse in Europe. A growing sense of self-hatred is eroding cultural ties, and mass immigration is intensifying historic rivalries. Europe is just one spark away from a major explosion.

Historically, Europe has been a battleground. Many of our ancestors fled the continent to escape age-old religious, economic, and cultural conflicts. These grievances, long buried in times of peace, often resurface violently, passed down through generations. Modern European nations are shaped by two millennia of shifting borders and alliances, with many natives tracing their roots back to tribes whose territories no longer align with today’s political maps.

Consider the communication challenges between a Mississippian and a New Yorker. Now multiply that complexity by the nearly three hundred native languages spoken in Europe. In Switzerland alone, there are four national languages, including Romansch, which has its roots in the Latin of the Roman Empire. This linguistic diversity allows residents of small towns to quickly identify “outsiders” and often pinpoint their origins just by listening.

The devastation of two world wars, both sparked in Europe, led to a mid-twentieth-century movement advocating for the removal of national borders. The European intelligentsia, who helped form the continent’s transnational bureaucracy, blamed nationalism for the wars’ destruction, turning it into a taboo. Ironically, during this time, crumbling empires like France and the UK were supporting the independence of former colonies while simultaneously condemning nationalism within their own borders.

For the past eighty years, the contradictions of promoting European integration while encouraging independence movements have turned Europe into a potential tinderbox, more volatile than before the world wars. The ruling class has suppressed the historic identities of native Europeans while welcoming foreigners, urging them to preserve their cultural identities. This creates a dynamic where celebrating one’s national heritage can lead to accusations of “far-right nationalism,” while calls for immigrant assimilation are labeled as “racist” or “bigoted.”

This anti-European agenda has been intentionally crafted. The simultaneous repression of European identities and the protection of foreign cultures has generated a “multiculturalism dynamo” that alienates native populations. Europeans are increasingly taught to disdain their own civilizations while being pressured to embrace foreign cultures. The ruling class seems to use this strategy to undermine European identity.

However, a “Great Awakening” appears to be spreading across Europe as many citizens recognize the damage inflicted by unelected bureaucrats. After years of cultural erosion, a renewed sense of patriotism is taking root. Many believe that if globalism threatens the survival of European nations, then peace at any cost is not worth it.

Some Americans might view this rise in European nationalism as “too little, too late,” but I see a glimmer of hope. Sometimes, it takes reaching the brink before people find their footing and push back. When surrender means certain doom, the right choice becomes clear.

In the UK, a grassroots initiative called “Operation: Raise the Colors” has emerged. Ordinary Brits are encouraged to display the Cross of St. George and the Union Jack. What could be offensive about raising national flags? Nothing at all. Yet, the globalist establishment is in an uproar, with leftists arguing that such displays are “far-right” and “hate-filled.” Politicians promoting open borders label flag-waving as “extremist,” revealing their lack of loyalty to the nation.

This simple act of patriotism is effectively exposing the flaws of globalism. While it’s common to see foreign flags throughout London, any British citizen voicing concern over this will be silenced under the guise of “hate speech.” Ironically, the same authorities react furiously when Brits raise their national flags.

Similar movements are gaining momentum across Europe. A decade ago, patriotic displays were mostly seen in the Balkans or during independence celebrations in regions like the Basque Country. Today, flags from various European nations are increasingly visible at borders. Eighty years into the European Union’s integration efforts, the desire for self-determination is reigniting.

It’s evident that many Europeans are no longer willing to remain silent as their leaders undermine their heritage. As an American committed to the values of Western civilization, I find these patriotic movements a strong counter to a globalist agenda that seeks to erase European identity.

The words of Welsh poet Dylan Thomas resonate strongly in Europe today: “Do not go gentle into that good night” and “Rage, rage against the dying of the light.” Many Europeans refuse to accept a fate of cultural extinction. To live, they will need to fight.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Censational Market.