"Anthony Smith remains the most original scholar working in the field of nationalism. In this important book, he throws new light on premodern traditions of the nation and offers a new chronology for the emergence of nationalism." John Hutchinson, London School of Economics"Once again, Smith proves himself to be the doyen of nationalism studies. In The Cultural Foundations of Nations, written with his customary erudition and clarity, he reveals the variety of forms that nationalism has taken over the ages. This exploration of the "dating" and "shaping" of nations is a powerful demonstration of historical sociology at its very best." John Stone, Boston University"An intellectual tour de force: bold, carefully argued and provocative. Smith identifies different historical forms of nation and distinctive public cultures emerging from Antiquity up to the Global Age. He explores the legacy of hierarchy, covenant and republic upon modern nations and offers a compelling analysis of nationalisms as forms of a secular religion of the people which have evolved alongside or in opposition to traditional religions.

" Montserrat Guibernau, Queen Mary College, University of London"An important development has occurred with the publication of The Cultural Foundations of Nations: Smith has significantly furthered and deepened our understanding of nations and nationalism through an historical analysis of three patterns of social relations - hierarchy, covenant and republic - that rightly recognizes the relative independence of culture. His analysis is carried out with impressively wide-ranging and historical nuance - a powerful analysis that properly not only tolerates but also invites numerous ambiguities and complications as any serious investigation into nations should. With the publication of this book, all scholars of nations and nationalism, once again but more so as never before, owe a debt of gratitude to Anthony Smith." Steven Grosby, Clemson University, author of Nationalism: A Very Short Introduction.