This volume delves into the events that led to the creation of Ukraine, examining crucial moments of Ukrainian and world history and how connected they have been, and continue to be, to this day. When Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, the world witnessed the 'creative, freewheeling, darkly humorous, and deeply resilient society' of contemporary Ukraine, and discovered more about a country with a history that is 'exceptionally rich in examples of survival, solidarity and resilience.' In this timely and original history, Professor Yaroslav Hrytsak, Ukrainian intellectual and public historian, tells the sweeping story of his nation through a meticulous examination of the major events, conflicts and developments that have shaped it over the course of centuries, exploring Ukraine's dramatic history, incredible fight for freedom and its place as an independent nation in our world today.