Description
Book SynopsisThe Russia-Ukraine war that began in 2022 turned the world's attention on Ukraine, the second-largest country in Europe and one of the leading global exporters of wheat and other valuable commodities. Though some Russian leaders have long denied and continue to reject Ukrainian sovereignty, this book presents a comprehensive picture of Ukraine that is both intertwined with and distinct from Russian history. From its days as Kyivan Rus and its inclusion in the Russian Empire to the fall of the Soviet Union, the Euromaidan demonstrations, and the outbreak of war with Russia, Ukraine, as this book demonstrates, has developed its own identity, territory, and culture. With an up-to-date timeline of events, short biographies of contemporary and historical figures, and a useful annotated bibliography, this book unpacks the historical claims and issues relevant to the conflict with Russia and provides an accessible introduction to Ukraine and its peoples.
Table of ContentsSeries Foreword,
Frank W. Thackeray and John E. Findling Preface to the Second Edition Timeline of Historical Events 1. Introduction 2. Kyivan Rus: The Foundation of Ukrainian Culture 3. The Polish–Lithuanian Period and the Rise of the Cossacks 4. Ukraine under the Russian Empire 5. Western Ukraine under the Habsburg Empire 6. Revolution and the Establishment of Soviet Authority 7. Ukraine under Soviet Rule 8. The Drive for Ukrainian Independence 9. Difficulties of Postcommunist Transition, 1991–2004 10. The Orange and Euromaidan Revolutions 11. Separatism, War, and Ukraine’s Uncertain Future Notable People in the History of Ukraine Bibliographical Essay Index
