Education between “class” and “nation”: the influence of the theory of class struggle on Ukrainian educational historiography (1920s–1980s)
Education between “class” and “nation”: the influence of the theory of class struggle on Ukrainian educational historiography (1920s–1980s)

Summary/Abstract: The article examines the introduction of the theory of class struggle to the Ukrainian historical narrative (on the example of studies on the history of education) which evolved in the totalitarian conditions of the USSR. Class struggle was considered the essence of and the driving force behind history; therefore, the historical development of education was regarded as an area where the interests of progressive and reactionary classes were manifested. By relying on the theory of class struggle, schol- ars attempted to describe the national character of the development of education at various historical stages, which led to incorrect conclusions. Historians used the “progressive class” concept in studies on the development of education. In biographical research, historians examined the worldview, ideas and activities of education advocates based on their social class. Under the influence of the theory of class struggle, historians developed the concept of education as a tool for class struggle. Class theories led to the emergence of the myth that the ruling classes have no interest in educating the “working people”.

• Details
• Contents