The Nizhyn Historical Archive during the Second World War (the Period of German Occupation): Features of Functioning

Abstract

The article examines the activities of the Nizhyn Historical Archive under the conditions of the German occupation in 1941–1943. Based on the materials of fond F. R-4393 preserved in the Nizhyn Department of the State Archives of Chernihiv Region, the study analyzes the condition of the archival institution during the Second World War, the peculiarities of its functioning, staffing, financial situation, and relations with the occupation administration. The relevance of the topic is determined by the insufficient level of research on the history of regional archival institutions of Ukraine during the German occupation, as well as by contemporary challenges related to the Russian-Ukrainian war and the problem of preserving archival heritage under wartime conditions.

Unlike the city and district archives, the Nizhyn Historical Archive managed to preserve the majority of its documentary materials and continued its activities after the establishment of the occupation regime. The article highlights the process of the archive’s adaptation to the new political conditions, characterizes the staff of the institution, and analyzes the changes caused by personnel reductions.

The financial condition of the archive, the wage system of its employees, and maintenance expenditures are also analyzed. It has been established that the occupation administration provided minimal financial support for the archive while simultaneously exercising control over its activities. The study proves that, despite the difficult conditions of occupation, the Nizhyn Historical Archive continued to perform its main functions and played an important role in preserving the historical and documentary heritage of the region.

The materials of the study broaden the understanding of the state of archival affairs in Ukraine during the Second World War at the regional level and outline prospects for further research on the activities of archival institutions in occupied territories.