The Influence of Lonhyn Tsehelskyi on the Socio-Political Processes of Eastern Galicia in the First Quarter of the 20th Century

Abstract

The article examines the influence of Lonhyn Tsehelskyi on the socio-political processes of Eastern Galicia in the first quarter of the twentieth century and identifies his role in the development of the Ukrainian national movement, state-building processes, and the formation of the political consciousness of Ukrainians in the region. Particular attention is paid to Tsehelskyi’s activities within the Ukrainian National Democratic Party, his parliamentary work in Austria-Hungary, his participation in the establishment and functioning of the West Ukrainian People’s Republic, as well as his contribution to the implementation of the idea of the unity of Ukrainian lands.

The methodological basis of the study is grounded on the principles of historicism, objectivity, and systematic analysis. The research employs historical-comparative, problem-chronological, biographical, and historical-systemic methods, which made it possible to trace the evolution of Lonhyn Tsehelskyi’s political views and determine his place in the socio-political life of Eastern Galicia.

The scientific novelty of the article lies in the comprehensive analysis of L. Tsehelskyi’s activity as a political figure, publicist, and ideologist of the Ukrainian national movement. The study clarifies his contribution to the development of Ukrainian parliamentarianism, the establishment of state institutions of the West Ukrainian People’s Republic, the formation of the foreign policy course of the West Ukrainian state, and the spread of the idea of Ukrainian unity. The article also highlights his influence on the intensification of socio-political life among Ukrainians in Eastern Galicia and the mobilization of the population for participation in the national liberation movement.

The study concludes that Lonhyn Tsehelskyi was one of the leading representatives of the Ukrainian political elite of Eastern Galicia, whose activities significantly influenced the processes of national consolidation, state-building, and the development of Ukrainian political thought. It is proven that his political, diplomatic, and journalistic activities contributed to the establishment of state-oriented ideas and the strengthening of the Ukrainian national movement in the region.