Litvinism

Litvinism, also known as Lithuanianism (though this term can be confusing due to the modern definition of Lithuanian), is a fringe nationalist ideology, primarily prevalent in Belarus, that asserts a historical narrative positioning Belarusians as the primary inheritors and legitimate successors to the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, rather than modern Lithuania. It argues that the historical Lithuania was primarily a Slavic, Belarusian, and Ruthenian state, with Vilnius as its true capital, and that the modern Republic of Lithuania represents a historical perversion or distortion of this "true" Lithuania.

The core tenets of Litvinism typically involve:

• Denial of Lithuanian Identity: Downplaying or denying the Baltic (Aukštaitian) ethnic and linguistic origins of the Grand Duchy's founders and ruling elites.

• Emphasis on Ruthenian/Belarusian Contribution: Overemphasizing the role of the Ruthenian (Old Belarusian/West Russian) language, culture, and population in the Grand Duchy's affairs.

• Claim to Grand Duchy Heritage: Asserting that Belarusians, as descendants of the Ruthenian population, have a greater claim to the historical and cultural legacy of the Grand Duchy than modern Lithuanians.

• Rejection of Polish Influence: Often accompanied by a rejection or downplaying of the historical influence of Poland and Polish culture within the Grand Duchy.

• Idealized Vision of the Grand Duchy: Promoting an idealized vision of the Grand Duchy as a multi-ethnic, tolerant, and prosperous state, often contrasted with perceived shortcomings of modern Belarusian national identity or political situation.

It is important to note that Litvinism is considered a pseudohistorical and politically motivated ideology by mainstream historians in both Belarus and Lithuania. Its claims are generally rejected by academic consensus, which recognizes the Baltic origins of the Grand Duchy and the distinct development of Lithuanian and Belarusian national identities over centuries.

The popularity of Litvinism has fluctuated, seeing periods of increased visibility online and within certain Belarusian nationalist circles. It is often used to promote a distinct Belarusian identity separate from both Russia and the current Lithuanian state, though the specific interpretation and political goals associated with Litvinism can vary widely among its proponents.

While presenting itself as historical revisionism, Litvinism is often criticized for its selective interpretation of historical sources, its tendency to promote nationalistic agendas, and its potential to fuel interethnic tensions. It remains a controversial and largely fringe viewpoint within both Belarus and Lithuania.