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The Ethnology Notebooks. 2025. № 3 (183), 659—673

UDK 94(477.83-25)”1944/1953″:[687.1+685.3]

DOI https://doi.org/10.15407/

CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR OF LVIV RESIDENTS IN 1944—1953 (LOGISTICS AND SUPPLY ISSUES)

GENEGA Roman

  • ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0346-405X
  • PhD: History,
  • Associate Professor of the Department of Local History,
  • Lviv Ivan Franko National University,
  • 1, Universytetska Str., 79000, Lviv, Ukraine,
  • Contacts: e-mail: r_genega@yahoo.com

Abstract. Objective: Against the backdrop of social changes and upheavals, this study aims to analyze the clothing and footwear supply system implemented by the Bolsheviks in Lviv during the late Stalinist period. 

The research methodology is grounded in principles of academic integrity, objectivity, and source verification, employing a causal-consequential, problem-chronological, and systemic approach in presenting the material. 

Scientific novelty lies in the first-ever examination of the implementation of new practices in providing clothing and footwear to Lviv residents during the emergence of a new political system and post-war turmoil.

Findings: Summarizing the results, it can be affirmed that the early post-war years in Lviv were characterized by acute shortages of clothing and footwear. The deficit was exacerbated by political and economic changes in the city, which were initially caused by the ravages of war. 

The search for clothing even led to the desecration of fresh burials in the Lychakiv Cemetery. The daily life of Lviv citizens was marred by thefts of clothing from various institutions, and the city witnessed numerous armed gangs of so-called «undressers» who specialized in garment theft. The Lviv City Council attempted to address criminal activities while also acting as a social guarantor for Lviv residents by distributing clothing and footwear. Despite the government’s efforts, the shortage of light industry goods and their substandard quality plagued Lviv throughout the entire post-war decade. 

The materials offered by Soviet factories, coarse wool fabrics, and dark color palettes, significantly paled in comparison to the pre-war clothing’s quality and vibrant colors worn by the local Lviv residents.

Keywords: Lviv, Lviv residents, clothing, footwear, supply, atelier, City Council, Industrial Combine.

Received 19.05.2025

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