The development of Hop Production by the Czechs in the Volyn province (the second half of the 19th – early 20th centuries)

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to analyze the processes of formation and development of hop growing as a branch of economic activity by Czech colonists, considering it as a component of the economy of the Volyn province (second half of the 19th century to early 20th century). The research methodology involves the use of social and aspectual approaches, principles of objectivity and determinism, development and historicism, as well as a combination of general scientific and special methods (problem-chronological, retrospective, statistical, analysis and synthesis). The scientific significance lies in a thorough study of the issue based on archival documents and other sources of the history of industrial hop cultivation by the Czechs in the Volyn province, which transformed the region into a major exporter of raw materials abroad; justification of the importance of using the experience of Czech hop growing for the development of modern agricultural production. Conclusions. The mass immigration of Czech colonists to the Volyn province, the establishment of Czech settlements and four Czech volosts in the region, state policy aimed at supporting colonization, and the geographical location of the area provided favorable conditions for the emergence and active growth of hop production, a new branch of economic activity, beginning in the second half of the 1870s. The cultivation of world-famous hop varieties, the experience in hop growing, acquired in Bohemia, the introduction of the latest achievements in agronomic science, and economic interests ensured high production rates for the Czechs. They not only satisfied the needs of the Russian Empire but also exported the products abroad. The development of hop growing in Volyn was accompanied by the establishment of industrial institutions, financial associations, and the publication of specialized literature, which contributed to the intensification of industry and trade. The hop growers' associations established in the province at the beginning of the 20th century held fairs, provided assistance in exporting hops, promoted best practices, and encouraged new growers. The experience of Czech colonists in hop cultivation and their cooperation model can be adapted for use in organizing modern Ukrainian agribusiness.