Averkii Honcharenko (1890–1980) in historiography, journalism, and epistolary legacy

Abstract

Based on published materials and newly discovered personal documents, the life path of Averkii Matviiovych Honcharenko (1890–1980) is presented — the commander of the Ukrainian troops in the Battle of Kruty on January 29, 1918. His involvement in the creation of the Ukrainian National Army is highlighted, along with his efforts to popularize the heroism of the Kruty Heroes in European and American countries. His contributions to preserving the national memory of the liberation movement in Ukraine are also emphasized. The goal of the article is to present the life path, military, and public activities of Averkii Honcharenko through the lens of historiography, journalism, and his epistolary legacy. The research methodology is based on the principles of objectivity, historicism, and a systematic approach to presenting the issue. The study employs methods of analysis and synthesis, generalization, as well as historical-genetic, comparative-historical, and biographical methods. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the fact that newly discovered personal documents (letters, congratulatory and creative writings, photographs) provide additional insights into Averkii Honcharenko’s life path, political views, public activity, and relationships with Ukrainian émigrés. Previously known primarily in connection with the Battle of Kruty, he now emerges as a consistent fighter for a free and independent Ukraine. The reviewed publications, discovered documents, and materials allow us to conclude that Averkii Honcharenko maintained a consistent political stance, demonstrated tireless work in emigration, and remained devoted to the idea of national liberation for the Ukrainian people. Together with friends and like-minded companions, he worked relentlessly to ensure that the memory of Kruty and the cause for which Ukrainians fought heroically would never fade and would continue to inspire new generations to strive for victory.