Introduction

The historical and contemporary demographic composition of Ukraine frequently comes under scrutiny, with specific attention given to the region of Western Ukraine. This article aims to clarify the ethnic and cultural landscape of western Ukraine, focusing on questions related to the historical and current population. Despite some misconceptions, it is crucial to understand that the majority of inhabitants in this region identify as ethnic Ukrainians, with cultural and linguistic ties that cannot be equated with those of Polish people.

The Historical and Ethnographic Context

Eastern Galicia and Its Population Composition
Historically, the population of eastern Galicia, a region within modern-day western Ukraine, was highly diverse. The Ethnic makeup included Ukrainians, Poles, Jews, and others. This diversity is exemplified by figures such as Archbishop Andreii Sheptytsky of Lviv/Lwów, who had Polish ancestry but was closely associated with Ukrainian culture and identity. His significance lies in his bridging of different cultural and ethnic groups, rather than in any inherent identification with the Polish nation.

Polish Heritage and Ethnicity in Ukraine
It is true that some areas in western Ukraine have been influenced by Polish culture and language historically. However, the majority of the population in these regions considers themselves ethnic Ukrainians. They have preserved their cultural and linguistic heritage, distinguishing themselves from their Polish neighbors. Many Polish elements influence the local culture, but they remain distinct in their core identity and heritage.

The Ethnicity and Identity of Western Ukrainians

Polonization and Ruthenization
There is a common misconception that western Ukrainians are "Ukrainsified Poles." This viewpoint oversimplifies the complex history and ethnic composition of the region. Historically, parts of modern-day western Ukraine were integral to the Kievan Rus' and the subsequent Kingdom of Galicia–Volhynia, a realm that included significant Slavic populations, including East Slavs. Over time, these regions came to be part of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, leading to a form of Polonization in urban centers like Lviv.

The Polonization process mainly affected the upper and middle classes in cities, while the rural populations, particularly in the west, remained predominantly Ukrainian. The mix of ethno-linguistic groups led to a fluid and dynamic cultural landscape, but the majority ethnic group remained Ruthenians or Ukrainians, with a strong cultural identity that has persisted since the time of Kyivan Rus'.

Language and Cultural Preservation
Despite the historical interaction with Polish culture, the language spoken in western Ukraine is distinctly Ukrainian. The regional dialects of western Ukrainian, known as "western Ukrainian," differ linguistically from eastern Ukrainian. This linguistic distinction has helped preserve a distinct cultural identity, with many traditions and practices that are unique to the western regions. The resilience of the Ukrainian language and culture is evident in the ongoing efforts to de-Sovietize and de-Russify the region.

Identity and Ethnic Revitalization
With the decline of Soviet influence and the rise of Ukrainian independence, there has been a significant effort to revive and emphasize Ukrainian identity, particularly in western Ukraine. This process, known as the de-Sovietization and de-Russification, is ongoing. Over generations, the cultural and linguistic aspects of the region will continue to be strengthened, leading to a more unified and distinct Ukrainian identity. The natural process of cultural and linguistic consolidation will reinforce the ethnic ties of the residents in western Ukraine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is essential to recognize that the majority of people in western Ukraine identify as ethnic Ukrainians with a unique cultural identity rooted in their history. This identity has been preserved despite interactions with other ethnic groups, particularly during periods of historical rule. As Ukraine continues to assert its independence, the cultural and ethnic landscape of western Ukraine is likely to become more consolidated, with a stronger emphasis on Ukrainian heritage and identity.