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Rostislav BratynUkrainian poet, public and statesman
Date of Birth: 07.01.1927
Country:  Ukraine |
Content:
- Poet, Activist, and Statesman
- Early Life and Education
- Literary Career
- Political Activism
- Role in Ukrainian Independence
- Tragic End
- Legacy
Poet, Activist, and Statesman
Ivan Drach was a renowned Ukrainian poet, public figure, and politician who played a significant role in the country's literary, cultural, and political landscapes.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1936, Drach was the son of a prominent Ukrainian writer and activist. As a youth, he was involved in the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN). He graduated from Lviv State University in 1950 and published his first collection of poems as a student.
Literary Career
Drach served as the editor-in-chief of the magazine "Zhovten" (October). During his tenure, he challenged the prevailing political censorship by publishing works of banned writers, including Bohdan-Ihor Antonych and Volodymyr Hrytsko. He also initiated the regular column "Post Imieni Yaroslava Galana," which exposed the actions of Ukrainian nationalists. Despite his Communist Party membership, Drach maintained a strong connection to Ukrainian cultural identity.
Political Activism
Drach headed the Lviv branch of the Writers' Union of Ukraine until 1979. He was an active participant in socio-political movements. In 1987, he became the patron of the Lviv Society of Leva.
Role in Ukrainian Independence
In 1989, Drach was elected as the first democratic deputy from Western Ukraine to the USSR Supreme Soviet. He advocated for Ukrainian national symbols and defended the country's sovereignty. His passion for patriotism and political acumen earned him respect among Russian democrats. In 1993, he hoisted the Ukrainian flag on the "Hetman Sahaydachny," the flagship of the Ukrainian Navy.
Tragic End
Ivan Drach died under mysterious circumstances in 2018. Some believe he was poisoned. He is buried in the Lychakiv Cemetery in Lviv.
Legacy
Ivan Drach is remembered as a gifted poet, an outspoken activist, and a steadfast supporter of Ukrainian independence. His writings and political actions left an indelible mark on Ukrainian history.
