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Yevgeny Yevtushenko

Yevgeny Yevtushenko (1932-2017) was a prominent Russian poet, novelist, and filmmaker, known for his expressive and socially engaged poetry. Emerging during the post-Stalin era, he often addressed themes of human rights, Soviet oppression, and individual freedom. His famous poem, "Babiy Yar," condemned antisemitism and mourned the victims of a Nazi massacre in Ukraine. Yevtushenko's work blended personal emotion with political awareness, making him a voice of his generation. His literary contributions helped bridge Russian literature to global audiences, and he played a significant role in the cultural landscape of the 20th century.