Formation of Muscovy (Moskovija): Muscovy, centered around Moscow, began to emerge as a distinct principality within Kievan Rus in the 12th century. Over time, it grew in power and influence, eventually becoming the Grand Duchy of Moscow.
Separate Existence of Ukraine: The territory that is now Ukraine had its own history and political entities, including the Kievan Rus state and later the Cossack Hetmanate. However, it's essential to note that the concept of a unified, independent Ukraine as a modern nation-state emerged much later, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Peter I and the Russian Empire: Peter the Great, who ruled from the late 17th to early 18th century, indeed played a crucial role in transforming Muscovy into the Russian Empire. He implemented reforms, modernized the state and military, and expanded Russia's territory.
Rebranding as Russia: The term "Russia" (Россия, Rossiya) as the official name for the Russian state was not solely the work of Peter the Great. The name "Russia" had been used informally for centuries before Peter's reign, and it became the official name of the country during his rule.
So, while Peter the Great's era marked significant changes in Russia's identity and expansion, both Muscovy and Ukraine had long histories before that period. Ukraine's historical development and its relationship with Muscovy/Russia are complex and multifaceted, shaped by centuries of political, cultural, and territorial dynamics.
The historical context you're referring to is quite complex, but I'll try to summarize it.
During the medieval period, the area known today as Russia was fragmented into different territories, including Muscovy (Moskovija), which was centered around Moscow. Meanwhile, what is now Ukraine had its own distinct political entities, such as the Kievan Rus and later the Cossack Hetmanate. These regions had separate political, cultural, and linguistic developments.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, Muscovy (Moskovija) gradually expanded its influence and territories, eventually becoming the dominant power in the region. The reign of Peter the Great (late 17th to early 18th century) marked a significant period of transformation. He modernized and centralized the Russian state, adopted Western practices, and expanded the Russian Empire.
The term "Russia" as we know it today, referring to the Russian Federation, emerged much later in history, particularly after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. So, in summary, the historical development of the Russian state and its identity evolved over centuries, with significant changes and transformations occurring at different points in time."
Yeah, that's what I said! 😉