The Ukrainian Resurgence

Abstract

Ukraine's Re-emergence from Political Oblivion and its achievement of independence were major historical events which changed the map of Europe and altered international relations in general. Yet, because it was politically submerged for so long, Ukraine's history quest for independence, and current situation are still little known. This major study, written by a leading specialist, aims to fill this gap and makes an important contribution to the scholarly and journalistic literature on the former Soviet Union and the new states of the Commonwealth of Independent States. The Ukrainian Resurgence provides a concise recent political history of a significant new European state and offers new insight into how the Soviet Union collapsed. Drawing on an extensive range of sources, including interviews with key political and cultural figures, Bohdan Nahaylo traces developments in Soviet-ruled Ukraine from the beginning of the Gorbachev era and the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, through the turbulent years of glasnost, perestroika, and the emergence of the mass national democratic movement, Rukh, to Ukraine's rejection of the idea of a revamped Soviet Union. He then explores how Ukraine, in the face of economic crisis, internal divisions, and friction with Russia, consolidated independence and democracy. The Ukrainian Resurgence is essential reading for students, scholars, and policy makers who seek a better understanding of the nature of the former Soviet Union and the reasons for its collapse, as well as a clearer sense of the political landscape which has emerged after the USSR's dissolution. Above all, the book provides a wonderful introduction and guide to Ukraine's recent past and itspresent dilemmas.