Historical Encyclopedia
The process of uniting the Ukrainian People’s Republic (UPR) and the West Ukrainian People’s Republic (WUPR) is one of the key moments in Ukraine's history at the beginning of the 20th century. This event became not only a political act but also a cultural one, symbolizing the aspiration of the Ukrainian people for unity and independence in the context of a changing geopolitical landscape.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Ukraine was divided among various empires, and national liberation movements became relevant in both regions. With the collapse of the Russian and Austro-Hungarian empires in 1917-1918, two independent forms of Ukrainian self-governance emerged: the UPR in the east and the WUPR in the west.
The establishment of the UPR took place in the context of the February Revolution of 1917, when Ukrainian politicians began to actively demand autonomy. The Central Rada, as a representative body, adopted the I Universal, proclaiming the autonomy of Ukraine within Russia. Later, the III Universal, adopted on November 20, 1917, declared the independence of the UPR.
At the same time, in the west, in Galicia, after the end of World War I and the collapse of Austro-Hungary, the WUPR was proclaimed on November 1, 1918. These two states aimed at unification, which became relevant against the backdrop of the general struggle for independence.
The first step towards unification was the adoption of the Acts on the creation and proclamation of both republics. However, despite declarations of unity, the real political conditions in Ukraine and Galicia were quite complex. Both republics faced external threats from various states and internal Ukrainian conflicts, complicating the process of interaction.
The national leaders of both republics began active negotiations on unification, realizing the need to consolidate efforts to combat external aggressors and strengthen their position on the international stage. These negotiations were complex and protracted, but ultimately led to the signing of the Act of Union.
On January 22, 1919, the Act of Union of the UPR and WUPR was signed in Kyiv, which became a symbol of the unity of the Ukrainian people. This act proclaimed the creation of a single Ukrainian state, uniting all Ukrainian lands. The signing of the Act was a historical moment that foreshadowed further events in Ukraine's history.
This document emphasized the necessity of unity in the struggle for independence and self-determination. The Act of Union was perceived as a significant event for many Ukrainians, symbolizing their aspiration to create an independent state.
However, the joy of unification was soon overshadowed by external and internal challenges. The UPR and WUPR faced aggression from the Bolsheviks, who sought to establish control over the entire territory of Ukraine. Internal disagreements also exacerbated the situation as political factions within both republics did not always find common ground.
Conflicts with Polish troops in Galicia also complicated the integration process. Poland claimed parts of WUPR territories, leading to armed confrontation. The UPR had to focus on defense and organizing its armed forces, which hindered the implementation of plans for internal unification and reforms.
Despite all the difficulties, the Act of Union between the UPR and WUPR left an important mark on Ukraine's history. This event laid the foundation for further attempts by the Ukrainian people for self-determination. The lessons of unity and cooperation became significant for future generations.
Although the union was unable to ensure long-term independence, it strengthened the idea of unity among Ukrainians and laid the groundwork for further independence movements that emerged in the following decades, especially during the struggle for independence in 1991.
The union of the UPR and WUPR in 1919 was a significant step towards realizing the dream of the Ukrainian people for independence. This process reflected the aspiration for unity and self-determination, which remains relevant today. The historical memory of that time inspires new generations of Ukrainians to defend their freedom and right to self-determination.