Iraqi nationalism refers to a nationalism based on Iraqi identity. Iraqi nationalism involves the recognition of an Iraqi identity stemming from ancient Mesopotamia including its civilization of Babylonia and Assyria. Iraqi nationalism in history was influential in Iraq's movement to independence from Ottoman and British occupation. Iraqi nationalism was an important aspect in the 1920 Revolution against British occupation, and the 1958 Revolution against the British-installed Hashemite monarchy. More recently, Iraqi nationalism has been a major factor in Iraq's resistance against US occupation, leading to the expulsion of US forces.
Iraqi nationalism has emphasized Iraq's cultural heritage to ancient Sumer, Babylonia and Assyria, states that are considered the cradle of civilization that spread civilization to other parts of the world.
Babylonian ruler Nebuchadnezzar II and Kurdish Muslim leader Saladin during the Crusades are two important historical figures of Iraq and iconic figures in Iraqi nationalism.