Why did Russia suddenly invade Ukraine? Many people have discussed this question - but few have focused on the century of history that led up to the invasion. This is a war over history. Both Russia and Ukraine have long-standing claims and counterclaims over the same piece of land. Russia’s own history of bloody civil war has also shaped its current aggressions in Ukraine. This essay will explore and analyze the history of the conflict, its root causes, and how European history in general has played a role in the invasion.