ABSTRAKTanzania has enjoyed rather peaceful political transitions both the post-colonial regime and to multiparty democracy whereas in many other African states, recurring violent civil wars and ethnic conflicts have led to tremendous human suffering. This research examines how Tanzania achieved succesful national-identity-building and national integration that brought about stability in the society and how the nationalist policies have influenced democratic development in the multiparty regime. Tanzania in the aftermath of colonization chose to follow the path to unity and equality, while it suppressed cultural diversity and individual liberty. Yet, the changes in the recent elections give hope for further democratic development in Tanzania. The nationalism trajectories shape its democratization process to be slow but peaceful.