Evolution of ideas of Ukraine’s independence in the theoretical heritage of O. Konisky

Abstract

Purpose. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the evolution of the concept of independence in Oleksandr Konyskyi’s theoretical legacy and to determine its significance for the formation of Ukrainian cultural and political identity under conditions of statelessness. It seeks to highlight the conceptual foundations of Konyskyi’s activities as one of the leading figures in the Ukrainian national movement during the second half of the 19th century. Methods.The research applies problem-chronological, comparative-historical, and structural-functional approaches to analyze Konyskyi’s writings, correspondence, and publicist works within the context of interactions between cultural, evolutionary, and political strategies. A contextual source analysis method was also employed, particularly in examining diaries, personal letters, contemporaries’ memoirs, and critical scholarly responses. Results. The study reveals that Konyskyi consistently emphasized, in both his correspondence and public speeches, that compromises without a clear national revival agenda ultimately led to demoralization and fragmentation of efforts. His skepticism toward radical movements in both Galicia and the Dnipro region stemmed from his conviction that revolutionary change without cultural grounding was futile. As Konyskyi remarked, “Among our people, there is no shortage of those who can charm the people with beautiful words yet are incapable of working on the foundations without which no structure can stand.” An analysis of modern historical scholarship demonstrates that the idea of cultural independence played a distinct role in shaping Ukrainian political thought. Its legacy can be traced in later generations of national activists, who sought to combine civic solidarity with the gradual institutional development of Ukrainian public life. The research also underscores the tension between cultural aspirations and the urgent political demands of the time. In numerous letters, Konyskyi returned to the theme that “one cannot build the house of freedom if some are building while others keep undermining,” emphasizing unity as a necessary condition for success. Conclusions. The study establishes that Konyskyi’s concept of evolutionary independence laid a foundational framework for subsequent models of autonomy and contributed to the broader development of a modern Ukrainian political nation.