After years of exploitation and slavery emerged the Cossacks: A people of the Steppes who answered to no one but themselves, valuing freedom over all.
But how did a nomadic society reshape power on Eastern Europe's frontier?
Join us as we journey through the rise of the Cossacks - some of the fiercest and boldest warriors Europe has ever seen.
In the wake of the death of the Rus, Mongol overlords, Polish kings, and Lithuanian dukes all sought to claim the region for themselves. Yet none could fully assert control.
But why?
Join us as we journey through one of Ukraine and Eastern Europe’s most chaotic periods, uncovering epic battles and devious schemes.
For longer written essays and deeper historical analysis, you can find my work on Substack: https://substack.com/@agastyamohanty?
Vikings, empire, religion and power - how do they connect to the first Slavic state?
And why does the answer lie in a Viking trading hub established in Kyiv that grew into a forgotten empire?
Join us as we journey back to the birth of the Kievan Rus - the first Slavic state, its rise, its collapse and the formation of Slavic identities as we know them today.
Why is the world the way it is today? Why can't it be different? Join me, Agastya Mohanty as we scrutinize history, question the established status quo, and offer fresh perspectives on age - old stories.
Our first series: Why are Russia and Ukraine at war?