Restoration of Independence Day
August 20, Wednesday
Historical background
- 1918: Estonia first declared independence during the collapse of the Russian Empire.
- 1940–1991: Soviet occupation (with German occupation during World War II). Western countries largely did not recognize the Soviet annexation de jure.
- 1987–1991: The “Singing Revolution” saw mass, peaceful demonstrations, including the Baltic Way human chain in 1989.
- March 1990: Estonia’s Supreme Council declared a transition period toward full independence.
- 20 August 1991: Amid the failed coup in Moscow, the Supreme Council adopted a resolution restoring the Republic of Estonia’s independence on the basis of legal continuity.
- August 1991: Soviet forces attempted to seize the Tallinn TV Tower; employees and volunteers held them off until the coup failed.
- September 1991: The Soviet Union’s State Council recognized Baltic independence on 6 September; Estonia joined the United Nations on 17 September.
How it’s observed
- Official ceremonies in Tallinn, including events involving the President, Prime Minister, and the Riigikogu (Parliament).
- Flag-raising and concerts; speeches honoring those who led the independence movement.
- Cultural programs, exhibitions, and community gatherings across the country.
- Many people display the blue–black–white national flag at homes and public buildings.
- Media retrospectives about the Singing Revolution and 1991 events.
Symbols and meaning
- The national flag’s colors are commonly interpreted as blue (sky, faith), black (soil and the trials of history), and white (striving for freedom, hope, and snow).