Flat, fertile, and tempting to invaders, for centuries Ukraine was fought over by more powerful neighbors. Though its modern national movement dates back to the early 19th century, it did not win real independence until 1991, with the collapse of the Soviet Union. Since then, Ukrainians have proven themselves as members of the world community and as defenders of their homeland. Previously published in 2015, this history has been updated in the wake of Russia's ongoing invasion, and Anna Reid returns to the scene to gather testimonies from refugees, politicians, and victims of war crimes.