Balykin I. Soviet National Policy in the Donbas Region (1943-1982)

The thesis is devoted to the complex study of theoretical principles and practical aspects of the implementation of the Soviet national policy in the Donbas region during 1943-1982 period - from liberation from the Nazi occupation until the end of the stagnation period and the beginning of "perestroika". On the basis of involvement of a large number of historiographical materials and wide circle of sources both basic principles/regularities and regional features of the state activities in the field of ethnic relations in Eastern Ukraine were found. The analysis of the main stages of the evolution of national policy, which was subordinated to the main goal - creation of the new "Soviet nation" and education of Soviet-Socialist patriotism - was held. The process of the implementation of such task was accompanied by an active policy of Russification, which affected all spheres of life - from education to family relations. In confirmation to these findings the analysis of the main demographic changes, ethnic and linguistic characteristics of Donbas population during this period was organized. The influence of the main Soviet national-wide process on the practical sphere of national life in the region was researched. The causes of creation of specific "regional patriotism" in this industrial land were outlined. Results, received in this thesis as well as recommendations, that were prepared on their basis, can be used in the process of reformation of Ukrainian regional policy.