The Russia-Ukraine war that began in 2022 turned the world's attention on Ukraine, the second-largest country in Europe and one of the leading global exporters of wheat and other valuable commodities. Though some Russian leaders have long denied and continue to reject Ukrainian sovereignty, this book presents a comprehensive picture of Ukraine that is both intertwined with and distinct from Russian history. From its days as Kyivan Rus and its inclusion in the Russian Empire to the fall of the Soviet Union, the Euromaidan demonstrations, and the outbreak of war with Russia, Ukraine, as this book demonstrates, has developed its own identity, territory, and culture. With a timeline of events, short biographies of contemporary and historical figures, and a useful annotated bibliography, this book unpacks the historical claims and issues relevant to the conflict with Russia and provides an accessible introduction to Ukraine and its peoples.
