ukránok

Ukrainians are an East Slavic ethnic group native to Ukraine. They are the dominant ethnic group in Ukraine and constitute the majority of its population. The Ukrainian language is their national language, belonging to the East Slavic branch of the Indo-European language family. Historically, Ukrainian lands have been a crossroads of cultures and empires, influencing their traditions and identity.

The formation of the Ukrainian ethnos is linked to the ancient state of Kyivan Rus', which existed from the 9th to the 13th centuries. Following the fragmentation of Kyivan Rus', Ukrainian territories were often under the rule of various neighboring powers, including the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, the Kingdom of Poland, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, and later the Russian Empire and the Austro-Hungarian Empire. These experiences shaped Ukrainian national consciousness and aspirations for statehood.

Ukrainian culture is rich and diverse, encompassing folk traditions, music, dance, literature, and art. Vyshyvanka, a traditional embroidered shirt, is a prominent symbol of Ukrainian identity. Easter eggs, known as pysanky, are another significant cultural artifact, often decorated with intricate symbolic patterns. The Orthodox Christian faith has played a significant role in Ukrainian religious life and cultural development.

In the modern era, Ukraine gained independence in 1991 following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Ukrainians today are engaged in building their nation, preserving their heritage, and navigating contemporary political and social challenges. The diaspora of Ukrainians is found in many countries around the world, contributing to their cultural presence internationally.