On the Media
Writing (and Rewriting) Russian History
Feb 26, 2025
Mikhail Zygar, a renowned Russian investigative journalist and author of "War and Punishment," dives deep into the historical narratives that fuel Russia's imperial ambitions. He discusses Putin's controversial claims about Ukrainian identity and the long-standing myths perpetuated by state media. Zygar traces these inaccuracies back to medieval times, revealing how figures like Ivan Mazepa have been mythologized. The conversation highlights the importance of a truthful account of Russian history and the role of cultural icons in shaping national identity.
15:51
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast reveals how Russian leaders manipulate historical narratives to falsely assert Ukraine's illegitimacy, aiding their imperialist agenda.
- Mikhail Zygar emphasizes the need for rewriting history to acknowledge the complexities of national identity and the injustices of Russian imperialism.
Deep dives
The Historical Unity Myth
A significant myth addressed is the notion of historical unity between Russia and Ukraine, which has been manipulated by Russian leaders to justify the invasion of Ukraine. This concept, traced back to a German monk's writings in the 17th century, claims that Ukraine is not a legitimate country but rather a part of a greater Russia. The narrative posits that Kievan Rus, a historic state centered in present-day Ukraine, eventually led to the establishment of Moscow as the capital of this unified entity. This portrayal serves as a tool in contemporary Russian media to reinforce the idea that Ukraine lacks sovereignty and legitimacy as a separate nation.
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