Makhnovia facts for kids

Makhnovia, also known as the Free Territory of Ukraine, was a special area in Ukraine that existed from 1918 to 1921. It was created during the Ukrainian Revolution (1917-1921). People in Makhnovia tried to build a society where there was no central government, based on ideas of anarchism.

In this territory, local groups called "free soviets" and self-governing communities were set up. These communities worked together and were protected by the Revolutionary Insurrectionary Army, led by Nestor Makhno.

What Was Makhnovia?

Makhnovia began on November 27, 1918, when Nestor Makhno's army took control of the town of Huliaipole. This town became the main center of the territory.

In Makhnovia, Ukrainian farmers stopped paying rent to wealthy landowners. Instead, they took control of the land, farms, and animals that belonged to landowners, rich farmers, and religious groups. They formed local groups to manage these resources and share them fairly among different villages and communities.

Battles and the End of Makhnovia

Makhnovia faced many challenges and conflicts.

Fighting the White Army

In March 1920, a group called the White movement, led by Anton Denikin, took over parts of the region. They tried to set up their own government. However, by the end of March 1920, Makhno's army, working with the Red Army, pushed Denikin's forces back.

The End of the Free Territory

Makhnovia came to an end in 1921. Nestor Makhno and 77 of his soldiers had to escape the area. Even after Makhno left, some parts of his army continued to fight until late 1922.

Images for kids

• 

  Currency-substitute stamps allegedly distributed by the Makhnovists

• 

  50 ruble banknote, allegedly issued by the Makhnovshchina.

• 

  Map of the most common native languages in the districts and cities of the Ukrainian SSR, developed by the Soviet Census of December 1926.

See also

In Spanish: Majnóvschina para niños