Timothy Snyder, a historian from Yale, discusses the devastating impact of Soviet policies on Ukraine, particularly during the 1920s and 1930s. He explains that these policies aimed to transform Ukraine into a worker-based economy by transferring agricultural authority from private individuals to the state. This shift was intended to provide the state with control over capital for industrialization, leading to command and control over peasants, land, and the food supply. Snyder describes the Ukrainian famine of 1932-1933 as a result of these policies. The famine, also known as the Holodomor, was a man-made tragedy caused by the Soviet government's actions. As collectivization efforts intensified, agricultural productivity declined, leading to food shortages. Stalin's politicization of the situation exacerbated the crisis, with the blame being shifted to the Ukrainian Communist Party and policies restricting…show more content… He highlights the devastating toll of events like the Holodomor, where millions of innocent lives were lost. Despite the immense suffering, Ukrainian society has shown resilience and a commitment to preserving its distinct identity. Snyder provides context on Ukraine's history within the Soviet Union, noting its integral role in the union until its dissolution in 1991. During World War II, Ukraine bore a heavy burden, enduring significant civilian casualties and suffering under German occupation. Stalin's shifting attitudes towards Ukraine during and after the war reflect the complexities of the relationship between Ukraine and Russia. The post-war era saw a period of relative cultural freedom for Ukraine, allowing its culture to flourish. However, this was short-lived, as a policy of intentional Russification was implemented in the late 1960s and beyond, stifling Ukrainian cultural
