The Euromaidan, also widely known as the Maidan Uprising, marked a pivotal and tumultuous period of demonstrations and civil unrest across Ukraine. This significant wave of protests began on November 21, 2013, with thousands gathering in Kyiv’s central Maidan Nezalezhnosti, or Independence Square. The immediate catalyst for this outpouring of public dissatisfaction was the Ukrainian government's abrupt decision to backtrack on signing a crucial association agreement with the European Union, choosing instead to pursue closer economic ties with Russia and the Eurasian Economic Union. This move was particularly galling to many Ukrainians, as their own parliament had already overwhelmingly approved the EU agreement, despite considerable pressure from Russia to reject it.

The Spark of Discontent

What started as protests against a specific political decision quickly escalated. Citizens were not merely expressing disappointment over the abandoned EU deal; their grievances ran much deeper, fueled by widespread perceptions of government corruption, the unchecked influence of powerful oligarchs, pervasive abuse of power, and systemic violations of human rights within Ukraine. Indeed, the then-President Viktor Yanukovych was even singled out by Transparency International as a prime global example of corruption, highlighting the profound distrust the public felt towards their leadership. The initial, largely peaceful demonstrations took a darker turn when, on November 30, a violent dispersal of protesters by authorities sparked further outrage and cemented public resolve, broadening the movement's demands to include the resignation of President Yanukovych and the Azarov Government.

A Life on the Maidan: A City Within a City

As the uprising gained momentum, Maidan Nezalezhnosti in Kyiv transformed into an extraordinary, self-sustaining protest camp. Thousands occupied the square, protected by makeshift barricades that formed the perimeter of a vibrant, resilient community. Within this unique urban encampment, protesters established essential services: kitchens provided meals, first aid posts tended to the injured, and broadcasting facilities kept the world informed. Stages became crucial platforms for impassioned speeches, informative lectures, lively debates, and even cultural performances, fostering a strong sense of solidarity and purpose. The camp was vigilantly guarded by 'Maidan Self-Defense' units, composed of volunteers clad in improvised uniforms and helmets, wielding shields, sticks, stones, and even petrol bombs – symbols of their determination to resist. While Kyiv remained the epicenter, similar protests erupted in many other parts of Ukraine, underscoring the nationwide reach of the discontent.

Escalation and Climax: A Nation's Struggle

The situation in Kyiv grew increasingly tense and violent. Clashes between protesters and police broke out on December 1, and the camp itself was assaulted by police on December 11, though it held firm. The new year brought renewed intensity, particularly after the government introduced draconian anti-protest laws in mid-January, which only served to further galvanize the opposition. Deadly clashes erupted on Hrushevsky Street between January 19 and 22, signaling a dangerous escalation. Protesters began occupying government buildings across various regions of Ukraine, demonstrating the depth of their resolve. The uprising reached its tragic climax between February 18 and 20, when fierce fighting engulfed Kyiv. This brutal confrontation between Maidan activists and law enforcement resulted in a devastating toll: nearly 100 protesters lost their lives, alongside 13 police officers, marking the darkest days of the revolution.

The Revolution of Dignity and its Aftermath

In the immediate wake of this extreme violence, an agreement was hastily signed on February 21 by President Yanukovych and parliamentary opposition leaders. This accord aimed to de-escalate the crisis by establishing an interim unity government, enacting constitutional reforms, and holding early elections. However, the agreement quickly unraveled. Shortly after its signing, Yanukovych and several other government ministers fled the country. The Ukrainian parliament swiftly responded by removing Yanukovych from office and installing an interim government, effectively concluding what came to be known as the 'Revolution of Dignity.' This pivotal moment in Ukraine's history, while bringing about significant political change, was almost immediately followed by further upheaval: Russia's annexation of Crimea and the onset of pro-Russian unrest in Eastern Ukraine, events that continue to shape the region's destiny.

Remembering the Fallen: The Heavenly Hundred

The human cost of the Revolution of Dignity was profound. A list of 130 identified individuals, including both protesters and law enforcement officers, details those who perished during the events. Among them were 18 police officers killed by protesters, but the vast majority of the fallen were civilians who actively supported the revolution. These brave individuals are often referred to in Ukrainian sources as the Heavenly Hundred (Ukrainian: Небесна сотня, or "Heavenly Company"), a deeply resonant term that honors their sacrifice. The Ukrainian parliament, the Verkhovna Rada, officially recognized the perished Euromaidan protesters as victims on February 21, 2014. Later that year, on November 21, President Petro Poroshenko issued a decree posthumously awarding these Ukrainian protesters the esteemed title of Hero of Ukraine. Furthermore, three non-Ukrainian citizens who lost their lives during the Euromaidan events were also posthumously recognized with the title Knight of the Order of the Heaven's Hundred Heroes. Since 2015, February 20 has been designated as "the Day of the Heavenly Hundred Heroes," a solemn occasion for the nation to commemorate and remember the ultimate sacrifice made by these individuals for Ukraine's future.

Frequently Asked Questions About Euromaidan

What was Euromaidan?

The Euromaidan was a major wave of demonstrations and civil unrest in Ukraine, primarily centered in Kyiv, that began in late 2013 and led to the 2014 Revolution of Dignity.

When did the Euromaidan protests begin and end?

The protests started on November 21, 2013, and largely culminated with fierce fighting and an agreement signed on February 21, 2014, leading to a change in government.

What caused the Euromaidan protests?

The protests were sparked by the Ukrainian government's sudden decision to reject an association agreement with the European Union, choosing closer ties with Russia instead. Deeper issues like government corruption, abuse of power, and human rights violations also fueled the movement.

What is the "Heavenly Hundred"?

The "Heavenly Hundred" (Небесна сотня) is a poignant term used to refer to the nearly 100 civilian protesters who were killed during the Euromaidan protests and the Revolution of Dignity, particularly during the climax of violence in February 2014.

What was the Revolution of Dignity?

The Revolution of Dignity is the name given to the culmination of the Euromaidan protests, which resulted in the removal of President Viktor Yanukovych from office and the installation of an interim government in Ukraine in February 2014.