Cultural Policy of the Nazi Government on the Lands of Western Ukraine

Abstract

In the history of the Ukrainian people, the events of the Second World War play an important role. The memory of this war is part of the spiritual and historical heritage of our people, which emphasizes its independence and uniqueness. The article considered the consequences of the cultural policy of the Nazi authorities on the territory of Western Ukraine during the Second World War. The author analyzes the ideological foundations and strategies of Nazi cultural policy in the region, focusing on their impact on the identity and cultural tradition of the local population. The influence of the Nazi occupation regime on Ukrainian culture, language, education and society is investigated.

The article also highlights the attempts of the occupiers to turn Western Ukraine into part of the Nazi Empire and to define a new cultural order in the region. The resistance and activity of Ukrainian intellectuals and cultural leaders during the occupation were considered. By analyzing archival materials and witnesses’ testimonies, the author reveals various strategies that were used by the population to preserve their cultural identity under the conditions of Nazi occupation. Repressive measures aimed at suppressing Ukrainian culture and language created complex challenges for Ukrainian intellectuals and cultural leaders. However, despite the pressure of the occupiers, the community continued to fight for the preservation of national heritage and identity.