Francysk Skaryna

 Francysk Skaryna was a Belarusian humanist, scholar, translator and one of the first book printers in Eastern Europe. In 1517, Francysk Skaryna published a book of Psalms in his native Belarusian (Old Ruthenian), thus laying the groundwork for the development of the modern Belarusian language. Two years later, he translated the Bible. 

Born in 1486 in Polotsk, Skaryna lived an outstandingly varied life. As a young man, he went to Italy and became the first Eastern European scientist who earned the highest academic titles – Doctor of Medical Sciences and Doctor of Liberal Arts. Over a 40-year career, Skaryna tried his hand at medicine, philosophy, art and even garden design.

Being the publisher and translator of the first biblical books, author of original forewords and commentaries to the books, Skaryna contributed greatly to many spheres of creative work: from the reformation of literary traditions of the written language and book printing to the history of civilisation and society, as well as the philosophy and politics of his time. He believed that a society could progress and develop only in a peaceful and harmonious environment.

The name of Francysk Skaryna is of great importance in today’s Belarusian culture and national conscience (сознание). In Belarus numerous monuments, streets as well as Gomel university bear his name. Also two Belarusian awards bear his name: the Medal of Francysk Skaryna and the Order of Francysk Skaryna.