rally around the flag
Crisis-driven national solidarity
To rally around the flag is to unite in support of one's country or leadership, especially during a crisis or external threat.
The phrase describes how populations set aside internal divisions when facing common enemies: Approval ratings soared as voters rallied around the flag after the attack.
Political scientists use "rally around the flag effect" for the temporary surge in support leaders receive during national emergencies.
- flag-wavingDemonstrative national enthusiasm
- stand withOffer allegiance to
- support the troopsAdvocate for soldiers' welfare
- patriotismDevotion to one's homeland
- galvanizeStimulate into action
unity · nationalism · solidarity · loyalty · collective identity · cognitive bias · band together · emotional contagion · wartime morale · common cause · national emergency · jingoism · allegiance · cohesion · wartime propaganda · crisis leadership · commander in chief · groupthink
rally around the flagpolarization
Separation into opposing extremes
balkanization · tribalism · culture war · disunity · civil war
rally around the flagdissent
Disagreement with authority
civil disobedience · antiwar movement · draft resistance · conscientious objection · sedition
rally around the flagpolitical apathy
Indifference to governance
tune out · check out · voter apathy · stay home · indifference
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