A Study by the Ridni Genealogical Society
The Ridni Genealogical Society has released fresh data on how many people in Ukraine today carry surnames tied to the Cossack elite. The study covers 20 family names, with results ranging from a single individual to more than 2,800. For English-speaking audiences, this offers a window into how centuries-old Cossack lineages persist in contemporary Ukraine.
How Many Bearers Does Each Surname Have?
Ostrozkyi has just one bearer, while Kochubei is the most common, with more than 2,800. The other surnames also show notable numbers:
- Lyubomyrskyi — 104
- Radziwill — 3
- Ponyatovskyi — 141
- Tyshkevych — 1,678
- Drutskyi — 91
- Khodkevych — 48
- Skoropadskyi — 119
- Polubotok — 13
- Apostol — 723
- Samoilovych — 444
- Rozumovskyi — 122
- Bezborodko — 468
- Vyshnevetskyi — 585
- Pototskyi — 966
- Zamoiskyi — 169
- Chartoriyskyi — 11
- Koretskyi — 2,414
- Yablonskyi — 1,790
This work underscores how deeply Cossack heritage is woven into Ukraine’s history and why genealogical research continues to resonate today.
The findings from Ridni open new avenues for interpreting Ukraine’s cultural legacy, especially the role of the Cossack elite and its lasting impact on modern society. Knowing the current count of these historic surnames may inspire more Ukrainians to trace their own ancestry, reinforcing a sense of national identity and connection to historical roots. It also helps outsiders appreciate how enduring these family lines remain in the country’s social fabric.
As the study highlights the significance of Cossack surnames in Ukraine's cultural landscape, it also invites exploration into other historical influences on Ukrainian identities. For instance, a recent report by Ridni delves into how various Ukrainian surnames are linked to traditional occupations, showcasing the rich tapestry of the nation’s heritage. To learn more about these fascinating connections, check out the details in our article on Ukrainian surnames tied to historical professions.