Ukrainian history dates back to ancient times, with early settlements established by the Scythians and Sarmatians. In the 9th century, the Kievan Rus emerged as a powerful state, with Kyiv as its capital. This period is significant for the spread of Christianity in the region, particularly after the baptism of Grand Prince Volodymyr in 988. Over the centuries, Ukraine faced invasions and control by various powers, including the Mongols, Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, and Russian Empire. In the 20th century, Ukraine experienced significant turmoil, including the Holodomor famine and the struggle for independence, which was finally achieved in 1991 after the collapse of the Soviet Union.