Ivan Bahrianyi

One of the most prominent names in 20th-century Ukrainian literature. Born in Sumy region, he showed an interest in literature and art from a young age. After enrolling at the Kyiv Art Institute, Bahrianyi actively participated in the literary scene. However, his work did not fit within the framework of the totalitarian regime, leading to persecution and arrests. Bahrianyi endured the terrible years of Stalin's repressions, spending time in numerous concentration camps. After World War II, the writer emigrated to Germany and later to Canada. He became one of the leaders of the Ukrainian diaspora, fighting for the recognition of Ukrainian independence.