Activities of the Red Cross Society in Ukraine (1867–1900)

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to reveal and characterize the main areas of activity of the Red Cross Society in Ukraine in the last third of the 19th century. The author made an attempt, based on published sources, to trace the evolution of the Society from a small organization to a powerful, developed public organization that provided assistance during wars and conflicts. Methodology. In the process of preparing the article, general scientific (typology, classification), interdisciplinary (structural-systemic approach) and actual historical (problematic-chronological, structural-systemic, historical-analytical) research methods were applied. During the analysis of the history of the Society’s activity, general scientific methods of research were used, such as induction and deduction. Scientific novelty. The article presents an analysis of the main areas of work of the Red Cross society, namely: assistance to wounded and sick soldiers during hostilities; social support of the civilian population in peacetime; international activities of the Society. The importance of the need to provide assistance to the wounded was realized already at the early stages of the development of human civilization. It was determined that one of the main factors contributing to the successful work of the Red Cross was solid funds. In addition to membership fees anddonations, an important role was played by interest on capital, which was systematically accumulated by the Society. Research results. The process of formation of the Red Cross society, its organizational structure, personnel training system, and financial support of activities were studied. It is emphasized that the high level of assistance provided by the Society was provided by the medical nursing staff – the Sisters of Mercy. It was noted that among the main factors contributing to the successful work of the Red Cross society were solid funds. The main stages in the activity of the Society during the late 60s – 90s of the 19th century are highlighted.