ON THE QUESTION OF THE PLACE OF STATE SYMBOLS IN HISTORICAL POLITICS

Aim. To consider the state symbols as an instrument of historical policy. To realize this goal - to analyze the legal and ideological aspects of the functioning of official symbols of the state, to determine their influence on the formation of national identity and historical consciousness. Methodology. The research methodology is based on the application of an interdisciplinary approach: a combination of comparative-legal, semiotic and historical-genetic methods of analysis with institutional and discourse-analytical methods of research. Results. The article considers the legal consolidation of symbolism, its interpretation in the context of the state historical narrative, highlighted the models of symbolic policy in different countries. It is concluded that it is necessary to develop flexible forms of symbolic representation that can take into account the complexity of collective memory without forcibly simplifying historical experience. The Ukrainian experience of decommunization as an example of radical revision of symbolic heritage is considered and critically evaluated. Research implications. The material may be useful for researchers of post-Soviet countries who consider historical policy in the context of national identity formation.