Severtsi

The Severtsi (also spelled Severi, Severyane, or Sever) were an East Slavic tribal union that inhabited areas along the Desna River, Seim River, and Sula River in what is now northern Ukraine and southwestern Russia. Their name derives from the Slavic word "sever," meaning "north," indicating their location relative to other Slavic groups.

Historically, the Severtsi are mentioned in the Primary Chronicle and other historical sources primarily between the 9th and 11th centuries. They were described as paying tribute to the Khazars before falling under the influence and control of the Rurik dynasty of Kyiv. Prince Oleg of Kyiv is recorded as having incorporated the Severtsi into his polity in 884 AD.

The Severtsi played a role in the military campaigns of the Kyivan Rus', and their territory was gradually integrated into the Chernigov and Pereyaslavl principalities. Over time, they were assimilated into the broader East Slavic population and lost their distinct tribal identity. The descendants of the Severtsi likely contributed to the formation of modern-day Ukrainians and Russians. The historical cities of Chernihiv, Kursk, and Novgorod-Seversky were important centers within the Severtsi territory. Archaeological evidence supports the historical accounts of their existence, revealing details about their settlements, burial practices, and material culture.