The war as a catalyst for reconsidering national identity in Ukrainian historical scholarship

Abstract

This study aims to provide a comprehensive examination of the Russian-Ukrainian war's impact on the transformation of national identity in Ukraine and to determine its role as a catalyst for rethinking historical concepts, symbols, and collective memory. The analysis of socio-cultural practices, content analysis of historical sources, comparative and sociological methods, as well as psychological assessment of collective self-consciousness were applied. It is demonstrated that social identity functions not only as a psychological, but also as a socio-cultural category, which is implemented through a system of norms, symbols, and behavioral models. The war became a catalyst for the rethinking of historical concepts, strengthening solidarity and the formation of a new hierarchy of values, the center of which is national dignity and collective responsibility. It is noted that in conditions of a threat to the existence of the state, a sense of unity, belonging and civil interaction is strengthened in society, which acquires existential meaning. It is also noted that the war stimulated the process of decolonization of historical consciousness, liberation from external interpretations of the past and the affirmation of the subjectivity of the Ukrainian people. Sociological studies indicate an increase in the level of civic self-identification, with the majority of the population primarily identifying with the Ukrainian nation. It is emphasized that an essential factor in the consolidation of identity is language, and legislative initiatives to expand the sphere of functioning of the Ukrainian language and language quotas in the media contribute to strengthening cultural security and the formation of civic unity. Under these conditions, the growth of the Ukrainian-speaking population reflects changes in the socio-psychological orientation of society. As a result, it can be summarized that the war accelerated the formation of a Ukrainian political nation with an inclusive civic identity. Increased faith in victory, pride in citizenship and active participation in public life strengthened national consolidation, which became a key factor in socio-cultural stability and the revival of Ukrainian identity.