1991 Ukrainian Independence Referendum
Background
In 1991, the Soviet Union was on the brink of collapse. Amidst growing unrest and calls for independence, the Ukrainian parliament declared independence on August 24th.
In the wake of a failed coup attempt in Moscow, the Ukrainian government scheduled a referendum on independence for December 1st.
Referendum Results
Overwhelming Support
The referendum passed with an overwhelming 92% of voters approving the declaration of independence. This showed deep and widespread support for breaking away from the Soviet Union.
Regional Variations
While the majority of the country voted in favor of independence, there were some regional variations.
- Crimea, an autonomous republic within Ukraine, voted in favor of independence with a small majority.
- Donetsk and Luhansk, industrial regions in the east, had significant support for independence.
Aftermath
The referendum results paved the way for Ukraine to become an independent nation.
It also highlighted the growing divisions within Ukraine, which would later resurface in the 2014 Crimean crisis and the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine.
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