The Ukrainian-Russian Borderland: History versus Geography

The Ukrainian-Russian Borderland explores the complex and ambiguous relationship between Ukraine and Russia, challenging traditional historical interpretations and addressing issues of identity and meaning through imperial and geographic contexts. The book situates the issue of the borderland in the city of Kharkiv and Kharkiv University as both real and imagined markers of the borderland.

Format: Hardback
Publication date: 26 August 2022
Publisher: McGill-Queen's University Press

The eastern edge of Europe has long been a dynamic and complex region, characterized by a shifting geopolitical landscape. The Ukrainian-Russian relationship, a complex and multifaceted interplay of history, culture, and politics, has been a central theme in this region.

Volodymyr Kravchenko, in his book "The Ukrainian-Russian Borderland," delves into the depths of this relationship, challenging traditional narratives and exploring the nuances of identity and meaning.

The Ukrainian-Russian Borderland abandons the linear historical interpretation and instead adopts a multi-dimensional approach, considering the influence of imperial powers and geographical contexts. It examines the historical and cultural connections between modern Russia and Ukraine, as well as the challenges and complexities that arise from their shared history.

One of the key themes of the book is the early modern identity discourse in the region. Kravchenko argues that the Little Russian identity discourse, which emerged in the 17th and 18th centuries, played a significant role in shaping modern Russian and Ukrainian identities. While this discourse connected the two nations, it also created divisions and misunderstandings, leading to issues of historical terminology.

Geographically, the borders between Ukraine and Russia have been a subject of constant flux and re-identification. Kravchenko situates this issue in the city of Kharkiv and Kharkiv University, both of which serve as real and imagined markers of the borderland. He explores how the city's location and history have influenced the perception and understanding of the border by its residents and scholars.

Kravchenko's book offers a fresh perspective on the centuries-long Ukrainian-Russian relationship, placing it within the broader imperial and regional contexts. He challenges the notion of a clear-cut division between the two nations and highlights the shared cultural heritage, historical connections, and geopolitical challenges that they face.

Through his meticulous research and insightful analysis, Kravchenko provides readers with a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics that shape the Ukrainian-Russian Borderland. His book is a valuable contribution to the ongoing discourse about relations between these two nations and offers valuable insights into the future of this region.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780228011996