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The question of why Ukraine has often been oppressed and oppressed throughout history has several historical, geographical and political reasons. 1. The geographical location of Ukraine is at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, which makes it a strategically important territory. This has become both an advantage and a challenge. Rich natural resources, black earth, access to the Black Sea and important trade routes (for example, the route “from the Varangians to the Greeks”) attracted the attention of neighboring states, such as Russia, Poland, the Ottoman Empire, etc. 2. The absence of a strong centralized state for a long time For many centuries, Ukrainian lands were fragmented between different states: Kievan Rus lost its power after its collapse, and Ukrainian territories came under the control of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, the Russian Empire, and Austria-Hungary. The lack of a single state structure made it difficult to protect one’s own interests. 3. Neighborhood with empires Ukraine has always been next to strong empires that sought to control its territory. The Russian Empire, for example, saw Ukraine as part of its “single people,” which became the basis of colonial policy. Poland, in turn, saw Ukrainian lands as a resource for its own development. 4. Cultural identity as a threat Ukrainian culture, language, and identity were often seen as a threat to empires that sought to assimilate the population. At different times, the Ukrainian language was banned (Ems Decree, Valuev Circular), churches were destroyed, and any attempts at autonomy or independence were suppressed. 5. Economic exploitation Ukrainian lands were often used as a resource base. For example, in the Soviet Union, grain produced in Ukraine was exported to other regions, which was one of the reasons for the Holodomor of 1932–1933. 6. Struggle for Independence The Ukrainian people have always strived for freedom, which caused strong resistance from the occupying regimes. From the Cossack uprisings to the liberation movements of the 20th century, Ukrainians have repeatedly rebelled against oppression, which made them the object of repression. 7. Information warfare Empires often tried to portray Ukraine as weak, dependent, or incapable of independence. This created an international image that made it difficult for Ukraine to be recognized as an independent state. 8. Modernity Even now, Ukraine remains an object of aggression because of its desire for independence, integration with Europe, and the development of democracy. The Russian war against Ukraine is a direct continuation of colonial policy. Despite all these challenges, the Ukrainian people demonstrate indomitability, the ability to defend their rights and independence. This indicates great strength of spirit and the desire to create their own future. #history #ukrainianyoutube #history #interesting #history #top #easternukraine #second_world_war #golden_horde