Ukrajinci

Ukrajinci are the East Slavic ethnic group native to Ukraine. They are the largest ethnic group in Ukraine, making up over 75% of the population. The Ukrainian language is their mother tongue, and it belongs to the East Slavic branch of the Slavic languages. Historically, Ukrainian identity is deeply intertwined with the land and its culture, which has been shaped by centuries of diverse influences, including periods under Polish-Lithuanian, Russian, and Austro-Hungarian rule.

The majority of Ukrajinci adhere to Orthodox Christianity, with the Orthodox Church of Ukraine and the Ukrainian Orthodox Church being the largest denominations. A significant minority also practices Catholicism, particularly in Western Ukraine. Traditional Ukrainian culture is rich in folklore, music, dance, and cuisine. Embroidery, known as vyshyvanka, is a prominent element of traditional dress and art. Ukrainian cuisine features dishes like borscht, varenyky, and holubtsi.

The history of the Ukrainian people is marked by struggles for independence and self-determination. Kievan Rus' is considered a historical precursor state, and later Cossack Hetmanate played a significant role in shaping Ukrainian identity. The 20th century saw periods of both Soviet rule and brief independence, leading to the establishment of the modern, independent Ukraine in 1991. The ongoing geopolitical situation continues to influence the lives and identity of Ukrajinci.