The idea that national identity is made up is emphasized, suggesting that nations create a mythology to present a historical continuity that may not have existed. This myth serves as a powerful tool, influencing how people fight for a common past and future, even if the concept of national identity itself is not inherently real.

Question

rephrase as a 9th grader shorten

Answer 1

The belief that national identity is made up is stressed, meaning that countries create stories about their past that may not be completely true. This story helps shape how people come together and work towards a shared future, even if the idea of national identity isn't actually real.