Day of Restoration of Independence

Day of Restoration of Independence (EST) History

The Estonian Day of Restoration of Independence commemorates the reestablishment of Estonia's sovereignty and independence after the end of the Soviet occupation. The Observance plays a significant role in fostering national unity and pride among the Estonian population while promoting a broader understanding of their country's history and cultural heritage.

The Estonian Day of Restoration of Independence was first celebrated on August 20, 1991. The peaceful Singing Revolution, which began in 1987, led to the eventual dissolution of the Soviet Union and paved the way for Estonia, along with its Baltic neighbors Lithuania and Latvia, to regain their independence. These historic events are not only vital to Estonia but also to the European Union as a whole since they mark the beginning of the end of the Cold War era and further enhanced the process of European integration. The inclusion of Estonia into the European Union in 2004 further solidified this relationship, and the Observance serves as a reminder of the shared values and aspirations between Estonia and the EU member states.

The Estonian Day of Restoration of Independence is observed through cultural events, exhibitions, and other programs that highlight the Estonian heritage and its historical journey towards independence. These events often involve cooperation with local governments and institutions in various EU member states and aim to foster understanding, awareness, and appreciation of Estonia's history and culture. The Estonian Day of Restoration of Independence is observed annually on August 20th.

Top facts about Day of Restoration of Independence

• Russia and the Soviet Union recognised Estonia as a new country within the Estonian SSR borders. These borders differed from the borders established by the Tartu Peace Treaty in 1920 and have been a problem ever since.
• The Soviet Union officially recognised Estonia's independence on 6 September 1991.
• In early 1991, an independence referendum in Estonia showed that 77.8% of the population voted in favour of Estonian independence.
• The Berlin Wall wasn't the only barrier to fall after the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War. Traditional barriers to the flow of money, trade, people and ideas also fell. - Fareed Zakaria, journalist and writer for the Washington Post

In the News and Trending in the EU for Day of Restoration of Independence

Day of Restoration of Independence Top Events and Things to Do

• Spread awareness on social media using hashtags such as #RestoringIndependenceEstonia, #FreefromSovietRule and #EstoniaFreeAgain.
• Attend the Restoration Parade in Tallin. The military parade is complete with performances and festive events.
• Watch a documentary about the fall of the Soviet Union and its final years. This will help you understand more about the events that helped Estonia gain its independence. Our suggestions: The Collapse of the Soviet Union, The Soviet Story and Age of Delirium.