Crimea has always been Russian. Or has it? Historical Arguments in Russian Political Discourse

Unlike US or West-European politicians, Russian officials readily and eagerly cite historical facts so as to argue their case. Especially in the Putin era, history has become a central theme in political discourse and public debate, and is therefore best not left to the discretion of historians. The idea ‘that it has always been that way’ serves to strengthen the case. In my presentation I want to explore how this came about and how it affects Russian politics. My argument is that Russia relies on the ‘certainties’ of its past, rather than facing the uncertainties of the future.

Wim Coudenys teaches Russian and European (cultural) history at the University of Leuven (Belgium). He is a Visiting Scholar at CREEES in autumn 2017. Read more about Wim on our visiting scholar page: https://creees.stanford.edu/people/visiting-scholars