The Historical Evolution of the Term 'Malorossians' in Ukraine

The term Malorossians or Little Russians has a complex and evolving history in Ukraine. This article aims to explore how this term was used by Ukrainians and the context surrounding its usage, as well as its significance in the broader context of Russian and Ukrainian identity.

The Historical Context of 'Malorossians'

The term Malorossians originates from the name given to the Galician-Volhyn Kingdom, which was also known as Ruthenia. This kingdom encompassed the western and central parts of modern-day Ukraine. The term was historically used by the Eastern Orthodox Church to distinguish Orthodox parishes from those under the influence of the Catholic Church.

Usage and Relevance Through Time

During the annexation of Ruthenian lands by Moscow, which later referred to itself as Russia, the term 'Malorossians' began to take on a new meaning. It became associated with a sense of inferiority and discrimination, leading to its decreased usage. This transformation underscores the deep historical and linguistic roots that shaped the identity of the region.

Post-1917 and Independence

By the early 20th century, the Russian Empire began to reserve the term 'Malorossians' for those who rejected the radical nationalist ideas and symbols that emerged after the Russian October Revolution of 1917. This marked a significant shift in how the term was perceived and used, aligning more closely with political and ethnic boundaries than a shared cultural identity.

Comparative Analysis: 'White Russians' and 'Malorossians'

It is important to draw parallels with similar terminologies used by different ethnic groups. For instance, the term 'White Russians' (Belorussians) refers to people who historically identified themselves with eastern Slavic origins. When they use the term 'White Russians', it does not imply a derivative relationship to the modern Russian Federation or 'Rossija'. Similarly, the term 'Malorossian' was not inherently derogatory; it was merely a reference to people from the territory of 'little Rus', the name of the historical region that encompassed modern-day Ukraine.

Modern Usage and Sensitivity

Following the independence of Ukraine in 1991, the Ukrainian ethno-nationalists began using the term 'Malorossians' to imply deragotory meaning for those who rejected their ideas and heroes. This usage marked a breaking point in the historical and cultural continuum, emphasizing political divisions rather than shared heritage.

It is noteworthy that both Belorussians and Ukrainians use similar terms to refer to their historical and linguistic roots. However, the context in which these terms are used can change significantly, influenced by political and social changes.

Today, the term 'Malorossians' is generally avoided by Ukrainians due to its negative connotations and its historical links with discrimination and marginalization. The term 'Ukrainians' has become the preferred name for the people of this region, reflecting a desire for unified national identity and cultural heritage.

Conclusion

The history of 'Malorossians' serves as a poignant reminder of how language and terminology can shape cultural and political identities. Understanding these evolutions is crucial for appreciating the complexity of Ukrainian national identity and the broader historical context.

Key Points:

The term 'Malorossians' originally referred to people from the territory of 'little Rus', a historical region that encompassed parts of modern-day Ukraine. Its usage evolved due to political changes, leading to negative connotations and decreased usage. Following independence, Ukrainian ethno-nationalists used the term deragotory, highlighting political divisions rather than shared heritage. The term 'Ukrainians' has become more prevalent, emphasizing a unified national identity.

For further reading and in-depth exploration of this topic, it is recommended to consult historical documents and contemporary discussions on the subject.