Independence Restoration Day in Estonia

When did the Independence Restoration Day in Estonia start?

The first recorded date of Independence Restoration Day in Estonia being celebrated on September 20 was in the year 1918.

About Independence Restoration Day in Estonia Holiday

The independence of Estonia was restored on 20 August 1991, after a hard-fought struggle for freedom from Soviet domination. This day is now celebrated every year in the tiny Baltic nation as Independence Restoration Day. The festivities bring together thousands of people in the country and from all around the globe to celebrate the significance of this historic event and how it was a major stepping stone for the development of a modern, independent Estonia.

The momentous ceremony of 20 August 1991 marks the turning point in Estonian history. In April of that year a referendum had made official the desire of Estonian citizens to break away from the Soviet Union, to restore their independence of 1918, and to become a part of the European Union. After more than five decades of Soviet domination, the dream of self-determination and nationhood ended on a warm summer evening. On that day in Tartu, the capital of Estonia, the Estonian flag was once more re-established in its rightful place as the symbol of a free and independent state.

There is an extensive program of events held on this day throughout Estonia, from concerts to festivals. People celebratethis historic event with great enthusiasm, marching with flags, singing national songs, and eating traditional food. After years of oppression and hardship, the people of Estonia can rejoice in the independence of their nation, knowing that it is a true success story of democratic achievement against all the odds.

History and Origin of Estonian Independence Restoration Day

Estonian Independence Restoration Day is a national holiday that commemorates the 20th of August in 1991 when Estonia declared its independence from the then Soviet Union. The rebirth of the country after being annexed by the Soviet Union in 1940 marked the beginning of a new era in Estonia’s history.

Estonia was annexed by the Soviet Union on the 16th of June 1940 after the signing of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact. This pact between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union allowed both countries to divide up Eastern Europe into spheres of influence and resulted in Estonia becoming part of the Soviet Union.

After the conclusion of World War II in 1945, Estonia remained under Soviet Union rule and its citizens experienced a dark period of oppression during Stalin’s reign of terror. During this time, thousands of Estonians were sent to Siberian gulags, while others were subject to forced deportations, oppressive taxation and rampant censorship.

Despite the horrors of this period, the citizens of Estonia never gave up on their dream of independence and worked tirelessly towards restoring their nation’s freedom.

Significance and Meaning

The Declaration of Independence declared on the 20th of August 1991 marked the first time over 50 years that Estonia could truly call itself free. This day is a National holiday that signifies the unyielding courage of the Estonian people and is a symbol of resistance against any form of oppression.

The day also marks the moment where the broken nation was able to once again stand as a sovereign country. It was not only incredibly significant for Estonia but also for other former Soviet nations that were able to take similar actions in declaring themselves free of the once oppressive Soviet Union.

The day also marks the perfect example of how acts of self-determination can lead to the restoration of independence. It is a reminder of the hope citizens can have in reclaiming their own freedom and the liberty that comes with it.

Traditions and Celebrations

Independence Restoration Day in Estonia is traditionally celebrated with gatherings and events held throughout the country.

On the 20th of August, the national flag is proudly flown from public buildings throughout Estonia, accompanied by high-spirited rendition of the Estonian anthem widespread throughout the streets. A grand military parade is usually held in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, featuring re-enactments of the 1991 declaration of independence and performances of traditional Estonian music and dance.

Various cultural and educational events also take place on Independence Restoration Day. Special events such as concerts, exhibitions and other activities are held in various locations all over Estonia to celebrate the independence of the country.

Geographical Spread

Independence Restoration Day is celebrated not just in Estonia but also in other former Soviet states who experienced similar struggles for independence.

Estonia’s neighbouring countries Latvia and Lithuania have similar national holidays which also commemorate their declaration of independence from the Soviet Union in 1990 and 1992, respectively. Since the three countries share close cultural and historical ties, it is only fitting that they celebrate their freedom together.

Modern Day Observations

Present day celebrations in Estonia are much the same as they were back in 1991.

The main activities take place in Tallinn, usually centred around the same square where the 1991 formation of independence was held. Here, attendees watch the official ceremony, listen to speeches and observe a military parade. The parade can consist of not only military re-enactments of the declaration of independence, but also cultural performances and dances.

Throughout the day, the national flag of Estonia is also raised over the various symbols across the city, such as government buildings, public squares and even private homes.

Interesting Facts or Trivia

Despite Estonia’s seemingly short history of independence, the country has a strong sense of national pride and identity. This is evident not just on Independence Restoration Day, but also in its ongoing efforts to promote democracy and human rights across the world.

In addition, Estonia is also the first of the three Baltic countries to have declared independence from the Soviet Union. This helped pave the way for other former Soviet states to follow suit and become free from the clutches of the once oppressive Soviet Union.

Conclusion

Independence Restoration Day is a national holiday that commemorates the day when Estonia finally regained its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. It marks a moment of joy and freedom for all Estonians, as well as a reminder of the courage and determination of those who fought for independence. The day is celebrated with grand events and activities in various locations across Estonia. This day is even more special as it serves as a great example of how citizens can reclaim their freedom despite outside forces of oppression.

How to Say "Independence Restoration Day in Estonia" In Different Languages?