Revolutionary Ukraine, 1917-2017: History's Flashpoints and Today's Memory Wars

This book examines four dramatic periods that have shaped Ukrainian, Soviet, and Russian history over the last hundred years, including the revolutionary struggles of 1917-20, Stalin's second revolution of 1928-33, the mobilization of revolutionary nationalists during the Second World War, and the Euromaidan protests of 2013-14. It is told from the perspective of insiders and introduces recent research findings and new archival materials.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 206 pages
Publication date: 10 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into four pivotal historical periods that have profoundly impacted the histories of Ukraine, the Soviet Union, and Russia over the past century: the revolutionary struggles of 1917-20, Stalin's second revolution of 1928-33, the mobilization of revolutionary nationalists during the Second World War, and the Euromaidan protests of 2013-14. The narrative is presented from the perspectives of insiders, including Bolshevik historians who initially documented the 1917-21 revolution in Ukraine, citizens accused of nationalist conspiracies by Stalin, Galician newspapers that covered the 1933-34 famine, nationalists who fomented revolutions in the 1940s, and participants in the Euromaidan protests and Revolution of 2013-14. Each case reflects the ongoing memory wars surrounding these critical junctures in history.

The discussion of these flashpoints in history is balanced, insightful, and illuminating. It incorporates recent research findings and new archival materials, offering a comprehensive guide to the scholarly and public debates surrounding nationalism and Russian-Ukrainian relations. Notably, the slogan "Ukraine is not Russia" was already circulating in 1917, and this volume explores the process that brought it back to the forefront in the present day.

The book is organized into four chapters, each exploring a distinct historical period. Chapter 1 delves into the revolutionary struggles of 1917-20, which marked the overthrow of the Tsarist regime and the establishment of the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic. Chapter 2 examines Stalin's second revolution of 1928-33, which saw the rise of Stalinism and the purging of opposition within the Soviet Union. Chapter 3 explores the mobilization of revolutionary nationalists during the Second World War, particularly in the form of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army and the Polish Resistance. Chapter 4 examines the Euromaidan protests of 2013-14, which were sparked by the ousting of pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych and led to the annexation of Crimea by Russia.

Throughout the book, the authors draw on a wide range of sources, including historical documents, archival materials, memoirs, and interviews with eyewitnesses and participants. The narrative is enriched by the inclusion of personal stories and anecdotes, providing a humanizing perspective on the historical events.

One of the key themes of the book is the complex interplay between nationalism and political ideologies. The authors argue that nationalism has played a significant role in shaping the histories of Ukraine, the Soviet Union, and Russia, and that the conflicts and tensions between these nations have often been rooted in nationalist ideologies. They also explore the ways in which these ideologies have been manipulated and exploited by political leaders and elites for their own gain.

Another theme of the book is the role of propaganda and media in shaping public opinion and historical narratives. The authors argue that the media has played a crucial role in perpetuating false narratives and stereotypes about different nations and ethnic groups, which has contributed to the escalation of tensions and conflicts. They also highlight the importance of media literacy and critical thinking in navigating the complex and often conflicting narratives of history.

The book also raises important questions about the legacy of historical events and the responsibility of individuals and societies to learn from the past. The authors argue that the lessons of history should be used to build a more inclusive and peaceful future, and that individuals and societies must confront the painful truths of the past in order to move forward.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable contribution to the study of history and politics. It provides a balanced and insightful analysis of four pivotal historical periods that have shaped the histories of Ukraine, the Soviet Union, and Russia. The authors draw on a wide range of sources and present a compelling narrative that sheds light on the complex interplay between nationalism, political ideologies, propaganda, and media. The book raises important questions about the legacy of historical events and the responsibility of individuals and societies to learn from the past in order to build a more inclusive and peaceful future.

Weight: 322g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367375577