Forging the OUN: How Dmowski and Piłsudski’s Ideas Shaped Ukrainian Nationalism.

Polish Nationalism’s Role in the OUN’s Formation

According to Espreso.tv: During the interwar period, the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN) was heavily shaped by nationalist and terrorist ideas emerging from Poland. Founded in the 1930s, the OUN drew inspiration from integral nationalism, a doctrine actively promoted within Poland. Notably, Roman Dmowski began publicly advocating these ideas earlier than Dmytro Dontsov, highlighting the early development of nationalist discourse in Poland.

The young Józef Piłsudski also served as a model for Ukrainian militants, as his actions and ideology resonated strongly among nationalist youth. While Poland was forging its own path in the interwar years, Ukrainian nationalists sought to define their identity and strategies for achieving independence.

Contemporary Studies on Nationalism

Among today’s Ukrainian intellectuals continuing to explore nationalism and identity, Oleksiy Panych stands out. A member of the Ukrainian Center of the International PEN Club, his work underscores the importance of debates on national consciousness and historical parallels between Ukrainian and Polish nationalism.

Examining the connections between Polish and Ukrainian nationalisms during the interwar period is crucial for understanding the historical context in which Ukrainian political thought took shape. — Oleksiy Panych

Thus, studying how Polish ideas influenced Ukrainian nationalism in the interwar years reveals new dimensions in the history of the OUN and its development.

Exploring the impact of Polish nationalist concepts on Ukrainian activists not only deepens our understanding of the OUN but also sheds light on broader processes of national consciousness in the region—issues that remain relevant today.