UKRAINIAN CULTURE

Ukrainian diaspora in the United States

Ukrainian immigration to the United States has a rich and complex history, beginning in the late 19th century when many Ukrainians left their homeland in search of better economic opportunities and to escape oppressive conditions under Austro-Hungarian and Russian rule. The largest waves of immigration occurred during the early 20th century, particularly following World War I and the Russian Revolution, as people sought refuge from conflict and political instability. Over the years, Ukrainian communities have formed in various cities, contributing to American culture while maintaining their unique traditions and heritage. Recent immigration has been further influenced by sociopolitical changes, including the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, leading to a renewed influx of Ukrainian immigrants seeking safety and a better life in the U.S. Today, Ukrainian Americans play a vital role in various sectors, enriching the country’s social fabric.

8 interesting facts about Ukraine:

#1 – Ukraine is Europe’s second-largest country

by land area, covering 603.55 square kilometers (or 233 square miles), making it twice the size of Italy!

#2 – Ukraine boasts seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites,

including the stunning Saint-Sophia Cathedral located in the capital, Kyiv, highlighting its rich history and architecture.

#3 – The second largest desert in Europe is in Ukraine

Located close to Kherson, Oleshky Sands is the second largest desert in Europe. It covers an area that’s ten times bigger than Liechtenstein! The desert consists of numerous bahrans and in summer their temperature reaches 75°C.

#4 – Borscht

While many might associate Ukrainian cuisine with chicken Kiev, the true national dish is borscht—a vibrant red soup made primarily from beetroot and beef.

#5 – Pysanky

Ukraine plays a significant role in the tradition of decorating Easter eggs, known as pysanky, which are intricately designed using wax and dye.

#6 – One of the most famous Christmas songs is Ukrainian

Orginially, ‘Shchedryk’ is a Ukrainian ‘shchedrivka’, or New Year’s song. In 1916 composer Mykola Leontovych arranged its choral version. In a few years Shchedryk crossed the ocean and was adapted into the iconic Christmas “Carol of the Bells” by Peter J. Wilhousky.

#7 – Sunflowers

Ukraine is the world’s largest producer of sunflower seeds, featuring picturesque fields of sunflowers that could cover the entire area of Slovenia if harvested. The sunflower (or “soniashnyk”) is Ukraine’s national flower and has been grown in the region since the middle of the 18th century, cultivated for its seeds or crushed for oil. They are also a cultural symbol of growing in tough circumstances, and a decades-long symbol of peace.

#8 – Agricultural Powerhouse

Known as the “Breadbasket of Europe,” Ukraine has optimal conditions for wheat cultivation, making it one of the leading producers in the world.