TED-Ed: A day in the life of a Cossack warrior - Alex Gendler

In 1676, the Zaporozhian Cossacks face a tense situation after the Treaty of Żurawno ends hostilities between the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and the Ottoman Empire. Despite their formidable reputation, the Cossacks struggle to maintain freedom due to shifting alliances. Under hetman Petro Doroshenko, they allied with the Ottomans, gaining independence but losing local support. With Doroshenko exiled, Stepan leads a diverse group of Cossacks, maintaining order and supporting Ivan Sirko, who plans to ally with Moscow. The Cossacks prepare to attack a vulnerable Ottoman camp, aiming to defend their autonomy. Over time, they become known for their spirit of independence, though they eventually serve the Russian government they once opposed.

What role did the Sich play in the life of the Cossacks?

In what ways did the Cossacks' spirit of independence and defiance manifest in their actions?