What term describes a loyalty to one's own region rather than to the nation as a whole?

The term that describes loyalty to one's own region rather than to the nation as a whole is sectionalism. Sectionalism arose in the United States during the 19th century and emphasized the interests, culture, and economy of specific regions, particularly the North and South, often at the expense of national unity. It became a significant factor contributing to tensions leading up to the Civil War, as different regions had distinct societal norms, economic interests, and political agendas, leading them to prioritize local interests over national ones.

Nationalism, in contrast, refers to a strong identification with and support for one's nation, often promoting collective interests and unity under a national identity. Federalism involves the distribution of power between the national and state governments, emphasizing the sharing of power rather than loyalty to a specific region. Patriotism highlights pride in one's country and allegiance to it, further opposing the idea of prioritizing regional loyalty over national allegiance. Sectionalism distinctly captures the essence of regional loyalty, making it the appropriate choice in this context.