Lithuania

Discover Lithuania

Lithuania's earliest inhabitants were the Baltic people, who arrived in the region over 10,000 years ago. The Baltic people were a fiercely independent people who resisted attempts by foreign powers to conquer them.

In the 13th century, the Grand Duchy of Lithuania was founded. The Grand Duchy was a powerful state that stretched from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea. It was a melting pot of cultures, with Lithuanians, Belarusians, Ukrainians, Poles, and Russians all living together in harmony.

The Grand Duchy of Lithuania was known for its tolerance and diversity. Under the rule of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, all religions were tolerated, and the country became a refuge for Jews and other persecuted minorities.

In the 16th century, the Grand Duchy of Lithuania united with Poland to form the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. The Commonwealth was one of the largest and most powerful states in Europe at the time.

The Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth declined in the 18th century and was eventually partitioned by Russia, Prussia, and Austria in 1795. Lithuania remained under Russian rule for over a century.

Lithuania regained its independence from Russia in 1918. However, its independence was short-lived. In 1940, Lithuania was occupied by the Soviet Union.

Lithuania remained under Soviet rule for over 50 years. During this time, the Soviet government repressed Lithuanian culture and religion. However, the Lithuanian people never gave up hope of regaining their independence.

In 1991, Lithuania declared its independence from the Soviet Union. Lithuania was one of the first Soviet republics to gain its independence.

Since independence, Lithuania has become a prosperous democracy with a strong economy and a rich cultural heritage. Lithuania is a member of the European Union and NATO.

Source Bard