Russian imperialism: conquering not just land, but people

Its carriers conquer foreign lands, convinced of their own superiority over the inhabitants. This sense of superiority, imperial arrogance, which manifests in the belief in a global mission to reshape the world in their own image, inspires the builders of empires.

Russian imperialism is different. It is about conquering not only territories but also the people who inhabit them. "We take your land not because we are stronger, more civilized, or live better, but because you are us, and therefore your lands have always been ours."

"The fact that some of the conquered become part of the imperial elite and contribute to its expansion is not a denial of Russia’s imperialism, but its essence."

Because all these beardless ones were never truly different; they have always been like "us," only through someone's intrigues did they forget this. Others, less talented, can and must also join this "we," perhaps not at the top, but simply in the masses, large and fearsome. But even so, they will feel the power of belonging to something formidable.

"Become like us, feel the satisfaction of how the world fears us" — this is what the empire entices the conquered with. "Become strong and fearsome again!"

Thus, Russian imperialism is not about conquest, but about return. That is why it is so important for it to appeal to the past, which must explain — "We have always been here and always will be."

Source

About the author. Volodymyr Viatrovych, historian, Member of the Ukrainian Parliament.

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