"BATTLE FOR TAVRIA": A HISTORICAL REGION IN POLITICS AND IN THE MARKET OF GOODS AND SERVICES

Abstract

This article deals with the process, and with the main factors and mechanisms contributing to the modification of mental boundaries among people on the South of Ukraine in regard to the definition of what was and is the South Ukrainian’s historical region of Tavria/Tauride. A conclusion is drawn that in the social perception of this historical region has been more and more frequently perceived as divided into two separate ones. The mainland part of the region has beenexpanded and became known as Tavria, while Crimea became known mostly as Tauride. This process of diversification of Tavria/Tauride toponyms coming into the political discourse of both Ukraine and Russian Federation that might allow some political manipulation and even legitimization of aggression.