The history of the Caucasus has long inspired poets, writers, artists, philosophers, and historians to reflect on the vile nature of violence, the tragic futility of imperialism, and the meaning of freedom as well as the sacrifices one is willing to accept to fight against foreign domination, even when the prospect of victory is nothing short of elusive. Taras Shevchenko's poem "The Caucasus," masterfully captures the tenacity of resistance against the threat of foreign subjugation and extolls determination to defend one's homeland. Imbued with subtle sarcasm and scathing irony, the poem is a rumination that epitomized the salient role of the Caucasus in the landscape of culture, identity, and politics in Ukraine and other countries that experienced Russian imperialism in the nineteenth century.

Shevchenko, a widely celebrated figure in the pantheon of Ukraine's cultural luminaries, personifies the enduring spirit of Ukraine's independence. Although Shevchenko had never visited the Caucasus himself, he took great interest in the struggle of the indigenous people of the Caucasus against the tsarist government. The poet sympathized with the mountainous communities who refused to accept the despotism of Russian autocracy and fought courageously against the numerously superior and better-armed foe.

Shevchenko's poetry inspires, transcends time, and remains just as powerful and relevant today as it was in the nineteenth century.

Борітеся — поборете!
Вам Бог помагає!
За вас правда, за вас слава.
І воля святая!