The former names of Belarus included Belorussia and White Russia.
Understanding Belarus's Former Names
Before gaining its independence in 1991, the nation now known as Belarus operated under different appellations. These names reflect its historical context and political affiliations over various periods.
Historical Context of Name Changes
The names associated with Belarus primarily originate from its period within the Soviet Union and its broader historical identity.
- Belorussia: This was the official and most common name for the country during its time as a constituent republic of the Soviet Union. As the Belorussian Soviet Socialist Republic, it was one of the three Slavic republics within the Soviet Union, notably the smallest among them (the larger two being Russia and Ukraine). This name was widely used until the nation declared independence.
- White Russia: Historically, the region was also known as White Russia, a designation that has roots predating the Soviet era and refers to a historical and ethnographic designation for the lands and people.
Summary of Former Names
To summarize the former names and their common contexts:
| Period/Context | Former Name(s) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Soviet Era | Belorussia | The official name of the republic while it was part of the Soviet Union, until its independence in 1991. |
| Historical Term | White Russia | A historical and more traditional name for the region and its inhabitants, used before and sometimes concurrently with "Belorussia." |
These names are integral to understanding the country's identity and its journey to modern independence.
