Abbreviated History of Ukraine

Posted on Dec 11, 2022

Translation:

Dad, what does "surrender" mean? I don't know, son, we are Ukrainians 

Ukraine has a rich and fascinating history that spans thousands of years. The territory that is now Ukraine has been inhabited since the Paleolithic period, and over the millennia, it has been home to many different cultures and civilizations.

In ancient times, the region was inhabited by Slavic tribes, who eventually formed the state of Kievan Rus. This state, which existed from the 9th to the 13th centuries, was one of the largest and most powerful in Europe, and it laid the foundation for many of the political, cultural, and linguistic traditions that continue to shape Ukraine today.

During the Middle Ages, Ukraine was divided into several smaller states, which were often at odds with each other. However, the region was united under the rule of the Mongol Empire in the 13th century, and this period of foreign domination lasted for several centuries.

In the 14th and 15th centuries, Ukraine experienced a cultural and intellectual golden age known as the "Renaissance of Kyiv." This was a time of great artistic and scientific achievements, and many of the country's most important cultural and historical sites date back to this period.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, Ukraine was subject to repeated invasions by neighboring powers, including the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and the Ottoman Empire. This period of instability and foreign domination lasted until the 18th century, when the region was finally annexed by the Russian Empire.

Ukraine remained part of the Russian Empire until the 20th century, when it declared its independence during the Russian Revolution. However, this independence was short-lived, and Ukraine was soon invaded and occupied by Soviet forces.

After World War II, Ukraine became a constituent republic of the Soviet Union, and it remained under Soviet rule until the collapse of the USSR in 1991. Since then, Ukraine has been an independent nation and has worked to build a democratic and prosperous society.

Despite its turbulent history, Ukraine has a rich and vibrant culture, and its people are known for their resilience and determination. As the country continues to develop and grow, its history will continue to play a crucial role in shaping its future.

For an expertly presented collegiate course on Ukrainian History by Timothy Snider, please see:

Making of Modern Ukraine Course