Ukraine: History and Culture
- Emily Siefert
- Apr 7, 2022
- 2 min read
Ukraine. I’m sure you’ve heard a lot about it recently, with Russia, but do you know what Ukraine really is? In this second addition to History and Culture (check out Chloe Chen’s), get a scoop of what Ukrainians, now and then, is all about:
History: In the middle ages, Ukraine started with Kyiv, a central trading area of Kievan Rus, but slowly Mongols started showing up increasingly. This caused quite a division between them, separating themselves into provinces. Later on, Lithuania swooped in and claimed and named the territories Belarus and Ukraine, showing what we now see today. Of course, time tells of many disputes and agreements over Ukraine’s land. Ukraine, after Lithuania, was put in the hands of the Polish and eventually won by Romania, then Czechoslovakia, and then the Soviet Union. Finally, Ukraine achieved independence in 1991 after the Soviet Union dispatched.
Culture: Having been influenced by the Eastern Orthodox Church since the beginning of Kyiv. Even today, Ukrainian customs are influenced by religion. Officially, the language of Ukraine is, obviously, Ukrainian but around 30% of the population speak Russian, ironically enough. Ukrainians are fun loving, and welcome large groups of people to go see opera or dance recitals.
Traditions: Ukrainians have many different traditions, all that reflect fun, though some seem a little absurd at times. A popular holiday is Maslenitsa, created to welcome spring. It features making pancakes and a ritual that goes with each day for a week. Another custom is when guests arrive, it is traditional to greet them with bread and salt.
Food: Many different types of food are located throughout the country of Ukraine, but here are some of the most popular.
Paska (Easter Bread)
This is an Easter favorite as families bake and buy, it could be found at any home for Easter. This sweet bread is an absolute go to as it tastes sweet with a doughy texture.
Borscht
A delicious beetroot soup is an ideal choice. Often served with garlic doughnuts, the soup is usually accompanied by sour cream or yogurt.
Varenyky
A yummy dumpling filled with countless options, usually potato or cheese. Either way you like to eat them, they serve a variety of choices so you will have to pick your favorite!
Holubtsi
Cooked from cabbage, this classic recipe incorporates rice and meat. It combines to make a very tasty recipe. However, if rice does not appeal to you, don’t fret. Many other options are available such as mushrooms and Korean carrots.
Deruni (potato pancakes)
If you are a sucker for potatoes, then this is your kryptonite. The fluffiness of the pancake combined with the savoriness of the potato can make anyone happy. Usually served with sour cream or baked yogurt, this is a delectable meal that can be ready for you at any hour.
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