An overlooked chapter in Ukraine's 1917 history: how Jews formed their own army.

The history of Ukraine in the early 20th century is filled with dramatic events and social upheavals that often remain unknown to the general public. This is especially true regarding the history of national minorities and their struggle for survival during revolutionary changes.

In 1917, following the February Revolution, Ukraine became the stage for profound social and political transformations. This period was marked by power instability, leading to a surge in anti-Semitic sentiments and pogroms that threatened the lives and property of the Jewish population. In response to these threats, Jewish self-defense units emerged, becoming a crucial element in protecting Jewish communities.

Pogroms and Their Consequences

The pogroms occurring in Ukraine were often accompanied by attempts from the Bolsheviks to instigate uprisings for power takeover. As a result, Jews became targets of violence. The government of the Ukrainian People's Republic (UPR) responded to these events by investigating the pogroms in Berdichev and Zhytomyr, allocating 3 million hryvnias in compensation to the victims.

Anti-Semitic Sentiments and Their Causes

Anti-Semitic sentiments in Ukraine had deep roots, extending back to pre-revolutionary times. In the context of social and economic crises, Jews were often perceived as "holders of power" or "exploiters," which intensified hatred towards them among the Ukrainian population. Political clashes between various military factions and the weakness of central authority also contributed to the spread of violence.

Formation of the Jewish Partisan Army

In 1917, under the leadership of Leyba Berkovich, the Jewish Partisan Army was established, uniting various self-defense units. This army not only defended Jews from violence but also sought to maintain order within their communities. Its activities were concentrated in areas where pogroms were most prevalent, such as Zhytomyr, Chernihiv, Bila Tserkva, Kryzhopil, and Zhmerynka.

The era of social and political changes in Ukraine in 1917 posed significant challenges for the Jewish population. The formation of the Jewish Partisan Army was a response to these challenges and demonstrated the Jews' determination for self-defense and the preservation of their communities.

Despite its significance, the history of the Jewish Partisan Army often goes unnoticed in Ukrainian historical research. This phenomenon requires more in-depth study and promotion, as it represents an important part of Ukrainian history and reflects the struggle for survival amidst violence and discrimination.

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