Why can nationalism make compromise and accepting defeat more difficult during war?

Nationalism complicates the resolution of armed conflicts by intensifying the stakes of the struggle, which makes both compromise and the acceptance of defeat significantly more difficult. Because nationalism links the identity of a nation intimately with the state, political leaders often frame their objectives in terms of "national interest," which can lead to rigid positions that clash directly with those of other states.1

This ideological commitment often transforms political disputes into existential struggles. When a state identifies itself with deeply held beliefs, the intensity of the conflict increases, and opponents—or even internal dissenters—may be viewed as hostile threats rather than legitimate parties for negotiation. Consequently, the severity of nationalist influence tends to prolong the duration of wars and increase their overall destructiveness. While this dynamic is often associated with new or immature nationalisms, it remains a potent factor in preventing the diplomatic flexibility required to end hostilities through peaceful settlement.1