Timothy Snyder: Making of Modern Ukraine. Class 11.Ottoman Retreat, Russian Power,Ukrainian Populism

TL;DR

The 18th century was a crucial time for Ukraine, Crimea, and Russia as power dynamics shifted and new empires emerged.

Transcript

(dramatic music) - Okay, everyone, greetings, happy Tuesday. Thursday is the exam. There's not, you know, what is there to say? Think about what you would ask on the essay question. Also, think about the year 1699 and what it means to you. It's a very easy year to remember, 1699. Lots of things happen in 1699. We're gonna cover some of them today. ... Read More

Key Insights

• 🙈 The 18th century saw significant power shifts between Russia, Poland, and the Ottoman Empire in the region of Ukraine and Crimea.
• 😀 The Ukrainian Cossack state faced internal divisions and had to align with different powers for survival.
• 📺 Catherine the Great's vision for a "New Russia" reshaped the region and marginalized the indigenous history of Crimea and Ukraine.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did the shifting power dynamics between Russia, Poland, and the Ottoman Empire impact Ukraine and Crimea in the 18th century?

The power struggles between these empires led to wars and conflicts in Ukraine and Crimea, causing the decline of the Crimean Khanate and the loss of autonomy for the Ukrainian Cossack state.

Q: What role did the Cossacks play in the conflicts of the 18th century?

The Cossacks were used by various powers, such as Russia and Sweden, to fight against their enemies. They faced internal divisions and were eventually disbanded, with their territories integrated into the Russian Empire.

Q: How did Catherine the Great's vision for a "New Russia" shape the region?

Catherine renamed territories in southern Ukraine and Crimea as "New Russia" and emphasized a connection to the classical world. This justified Russian control and obliterated the indigenous history of Crimea and Ukraine.

Q: What happened to the Crimean Tatars during this period?

The Crimean Tatars faced displacement, immigration, and later deportation under Soviet rule. Their population significantly decreased, and their indigenous history was suppressed.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• In the 18th century, Ukraine and Crimea went through significant changes as they were caught between the Russian Empire, Poland, and the Ottoman Empire.

• The Crimean Tatars, who ruled the Crimean Khanate, were defeated by the Russians and their power was eventually taken away.

• The Ukrainian Cossack state, led by Hetmans, faced constant struggles and had to align with different powers to survive.