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Biography & History

The Gates of Europe

Biography & History

The Gates of Europe

Biography & History

The Gates of Europe

Serhii Plokhy

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.

russia

politics

ukraine

european-history

24 min

6 Bite

Aperçu

De quoi s'agit-il ?

The Gates of Europe provides a captivating account of Ukraine's history, a country located between East and West. Because of its exceptional geographical location, Ukraine has been a constant battleground and dominated by numerous imperial forces over the course of history. Undoubtedly, Ukrainian history is a significant aspect of European history.

Résumé du livre

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.

"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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Toutes les bouchées

6 Bites

The territory of Ukraine was initially inhabited by nomadic tribes who engaged in trade with neighbouring Greek colonies.

The region had become an important part of the European tapestry by the late tenth century.

The Cossacks successfully established an independent state situated amidst two expanding empires.

In the Age of Reason, Ukraine faced constant turmoil as it became a battleground between the Commonwealth and Russia.

The 20th century brought immense devastation to Ukraine.

As Ukraine pursues EU membership, it continued to confront Russian influence in the post-Soviet era.

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