The Gates of Europe

Book summary

Serhii Plokhy is a Harvard University professor of Ukrainian history and the director of the Harvard Ukrainian Research Institute. His research is mostly concerned with the Soviet Union and Russian-Ukrainian ties.

Ukraine's geographical position north of the Black Sea has granted it a distinct role as a borderland between Asia and Europe, as recognized even by ancient Greek writers. This unique location has attracted numerous nomadic tribes and cultures throughout history. However, it has also exposed Ukraine to frequent warfare and the competing interests of empires from both the East and West. As a consequence, Ukraine has often experienced division and partition among neighbouring powers. Nevertheless, amidst this turmoil, the people of Ukraine have remained resilient, preserving their own culture and striving to maintain their independence.

"The shock of war, the humiliation of defeat, and the open wound of lost territories have served as potent instruments for building national solidarity and forging a strong national identity."

"Let us never negotiate out of fear. But let us never fear to negotiate."

"A man who causes fear cannot be free from fear."

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