205 Years Since the Birth of Panteleimon Kulish

205 years ago, Panteleimon Kulish was born — a prominent figure whose life became a symbol of national revival and cultural awakening in Ukraine. This talented writer, translator, historian, and ethnographer left an invaluable legacy that continues to inspire Ukrainians to this day.

Panteleimon Oleksandrovych was born on August 7, 1819, in Sumy region. He belonged to the cohort of intellectuals who combined various talents with an unwavering belief in national identity. One of the brightest examples of his creative genius is the novel "The Black Council." Published in 1857, this work became the first Ukrainian historical romance, narrating the Cossack era with its heroism and tragedy.

However, Kulish was not just a writer. His translation work opened the world of classical literature to Ukrainians. He was the first to translate the Bible into Ukrainian, making a tremendous contribution to the development of the native language and culture. His translations of Shakespeare and Goethe became examples of high craftsmanship.

No less important is Kulish's scientific work. He was actively involved in "Osnova" — the first Ukrainian periodical, which became a driving force in Ukraine's political revival and a means of "awakening" the political consciousness of Ukrainians in the mid-19th century. Panteleimon Oleksandrovych also actively engaged in ethnography, collecting folklore materials that preserved invaluable treasures of folk wisdom for future generations.

Panteleimon Kulish's life was full of drama. His revolutionary ideas and tireless work did not always find support among his contemporaries. However, his dedication to Ukraine and its culture left an indelible mark on history.