This book offers an engaging popular-science narrative about the origins of the Ukrainian Cossacks, their rise, flourishing, and eventual decline. It explores Cossack customs, military art, religious life, everyday culture, and social organization, as well as the structure and functions of the Zaporizhian Sich.

Special attention is given to the Cossacks’ struggle against external enemies and their contribution to the cultural heritage of the Ukrainian people. The author also examines the influence of Cossack traditions on the mentality and socio-political life of modern Ukrainians.

Second edition.

Length: 368 pages. Hardcover.