Sectionalism is to evelop a distinct identity based on ethnicity,color, customs, laws, language, economics, or culture. Since the 18th century, this has led to many, many revolutions as people have tried to establish their right to self-determination, which is why sectionalism is often a precursor to separatism. In a political context, sectionalism is loyalty to the interests of one's own region or section of the country, rather than the nation as a whole.