Which theory is associated with the belief that nations have roots in ancient ethnic identities?

Primordialism is the theory that emphasizes the deep-rooted connections between nations and ancient ethnic identities. This perspective suggests that nations are organic entities that arise from long-standing cultural, historical, and genetic ties. Proponents of primordialism argue that ethnic identities are not merely constructs of modern society but rather intrinsic and enduring aspects of human communities that have existed for centuries.

This theory contrasts with other concepts of nationalism, such as civic nationalism, which focuses more on shared citizenship and political institutions rather than ethnic ties. Modernist theories of nationalism, on the other hand, posit that nations are modern constructions, arising in response to socio-political changes rather than from ancient traditions. Ethnic nationalism, while also connected to ethnic identity, typically emphasizes the political aspirations of specific ethnic groups rather than the foundational perspective that primordialism provides regarding the historical continuity of these identities.