ARMY of UKRAINE 331 The unit of Father Makhno: Freedom or Death

Nestor Makhno (1888–1934), a prominent revolutionary leader, anarchist, and military commander during the tumultuous years of the Russian Civil War (1917–1923). Makhno is best known for leading the Revolutionary Insurgent Army of Ukraine, often called the "Makhnovists," which was a guerrilla force that operated primarily in southern Ukraine.

Key Points about Nestor Makhno:

1. Anarchist Ideology: Makhno was a committed anarchist and aimed to establish a stateless, self-managed society. He envisioned a Ukraine free of domination by foreign powers or centralized authority.

2. Makhnovist Movement: His army played a significant role in resisting various forces during the Civil War, including:

   • The Bolsheviks (Red Army).
   • The White Army, led by anti-communist generals like Anton Denikin.
   • Ukrainian nationalist forces under figures like Symon Petliura.
   • Foreign interventions and occupying powers.

3. Peasant Support: Makhno's ideas resonated with Ukrainian peasants, who supported his vision of land redistribution and autonomy. He promoted village communes where peasants could govern themselves without state interference.

4. Military Success: Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, Makhno's forces used hit-and-run tactics and local knowledge to achieve notable victories. He became a legendary figure for his resilience and resourcefulness in battle.

5. Conflict with Bolsheviks: Initially allied with the Bolsheviks against common enemies, Makhno eventually broke with them due to ideological differences. The Bolsheviks sought to centralize power, which was antithetical to Makhno's anarchist ideals.

6. Exile and Death: After being defeated by the Bolsheviks, Makhno fled to Western Europe, eventually settling in Paris, France. He lived in poverty and obscurity, dying in 1934.

Legacy:

• Nestor Makhno remains a controversial and polarizing figure in Ukrainian history.
• For anarchists, he symbolizes the struggle for freedom and grassroots democracy.
• For others, his methods and the chaotic period he represents evoke mixed feelings.
• In modern Ukraine, Makhno has experienced a revival as a symbol of resistance, autonomy, and anti-imperialism.

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