Rutenias

Rutenias, also known as Ruthenians, are an East Slavic ethnic group primarily residing in Belarus, Ukraine, and Russia. They share a common cultural heritage, language, and historical experiences, which have been significantly influenced by their geographical location and political history. The term "Ruthenian" is derived from the Latin word "Ruthenia," which was used to describe the lands inhabited by the East Slavs.

The Ruthenian people have a rich cultural tradition, including folk music, dance, and art. Their language, known as Ruthenian, is closely related to Ukrainian and Belarusian, and it has been influenced by both Polish and Russian languages due to historical interactions. The Ruthenian Orthodox Church, an autonomous branch of the Russian Orthodox Church, plays a significant role in the religious life of the Ruthenian people.

Historically, the Ruthenian lands have been part of various political entities, including the Kievan Rus', the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, and the Russian Empire. These historical affiliations have shaped the Ruthenian identity and contributed to the diversity of their cultural practices. Today, Ruthenians continue to preserve their unique cultural heritage while adapting to modern life in their respective countries.