History of Ukraine

Short History of Ukraine

Ukraine is a country located in Eastern Europe with a rich and fascinating history. It has been inhabited by various tribes and peoples throughout the centuries and has experienced a range of political and cultural influences.

The earliest known inhabitants of Ukraine were the Cimmerians, Scythians, and Sarmatians. These were nomadic tribes that roamed the area from the 7th century BCE to the 4th century CE. Later, the Goths and the Huns arrived in Ukraine and established their own kingdoms.

In the 9th century CE, the Viking warrior Rurik established the state of Kievan Rus in what is now Ukraine. This was a powerful state that dominated the region until the 12th century. Kievan Rus was known for its trade and cultural exchange with the Byzantine Empire, and for its adoption of Orthodox Christianity in the 10th century.

After the decline of Kievan Rus, Ukraine was ruled by a series of different powers. The Mongols (Batu Khan & Barke Khan sons of Joji Khan and grandsons of Ghingez Khan) conquered in the 13th century and controlled the region for over two centuries. Later, Poland-Lithuania annexed parts of Ukraine and ruled the territory for several hundred years.

In the 17th century, Ukraine experienced a Cossack uprising against Polish rule. This led to the establishment of the Cossack Hetmanate, an autonomous state within the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. However, the Hetmanate was eventually absorbed by the Russian Empire in the late 18th century.

During the 19th century, Ukraine was part of the Russian Empire and experienced a period of Russification, where the Russian language and culture were imposed on the Ukrainian people. This led to the emergence of Ukrainian nationalism and the desire for independence.

After World War I, Ukraine briefly gained independence from Russia but was later absorbed by the Soviet Union. Ukraine suffered greatly under Soviet rule, particularly during the Stalinist era, with forced collectivization and the Holodomor famine.

In 1991, Ukraine declared independence from the Soviet Union following its collapse. Since then, Ukraine has experienced political and economic challenges, including a dispute with Russia over the Crimea region in 2014.

Today, Ukraine is a sovereign nation with a complex history and diverse culture. Its people are proud of their heritage and continue to strive for a better future for themselves and their country.

Ali Faizan Ansari