Belarus is primarily called "white" due to a historical association of the color white with its geographical position as the western part of Rus' during the 9th to 13th centuries.
Historical Origins of the Name
The designation of "White Rus'" (or "White Russia") for Belarus stems from a significant historical understanding linking the color white with western territories. During the medieval period, Belarus occupied the western frontier of the ancient state of Rus'. This meant it was perceived as the "white" or western land within the broader Rus' domain.
Key aspects contributing to this nomenclature include:
- Geographical Position: Belarus historically served as the westernmost region of the lands associated with Rus'. The color white was symbolically used to signify this western orientation.
- Conflation with Rus': The name Rus' is often historically linked to its Latin forms, Russia and Ruthenia. As a result, Belarus has frequently been referred to in various languages as White Russia or White Ruthenia. This reinforces its identity as the distinct western "white" area of these territories.
This naming convention highlights Belarus's unique historical and geographical role, distinguishing it as the western "white" region within the historical Slavic lands.
