The article describes the phenomenon of national conservatism, placing it within the context of the American conservative tradition. The author analyzes primary sources and scholarly works – both those concerning the history of the conservative movement in the United States and those on national conservatism. As a result, the article presents the key elements of the doctrine of national conservatism. The author points out that, although national conservatism refers to the conservative tradition, it nevertheless engages in a debate with some of its elements – particularly fusionism – criticizing the possibility of compromise between conservatives and liberals. The article also discusses criticism of national conservatism coming from within the contemporary conservative movement.