Topography of the Ruthenian Population in Slovakia in the 18th century through the first half of the 20th century

Abstract

The Ruthenian population appeared on the territory of Slovakia during the so-called Wallachian colonization period, which took place from the 14th century to the 16th century. They settled in mountainous and foothill regions suitable for sheep and goat grazing. Their settlement was more distinct in the territory of eastern Slovakia and although they were exposed to the long-term assimilation of the Slovak and Hungarian language environment, they preserved their language and culture. This paper analyzes the topography of the Ruthenian population, problems related to the understanding of Ruthenian ethnicity and their development especially in the course of the 18th up to the 20th century in Slovakia.