The Restoration of Lithuania's Independence 1917-1920: Idea Turns into a State

Description

The First World War was won by nations aspiring to independence from the great empires. With its end, and a fundamentally altered political map of Europe, the state of Lithuania emerged. The Act of Independence was proclaimed on February 16, 1918, by twenty individuals who employed subtle diplomatic language, yet historically, it evolved from extensive discussions among intellectuals, journalistic texts, and purposeful political work. The dramatic and eventful period of 1917-1920 is immortalized in photographs and documents. By publishing them, we provide readers with a coherent narrative of the restoration of Lithuania's statehood, with the main protagonist being the Council of Lithuania. The memories of its members, the signatories of the Act of February 16th, acquaint us with the history of the emergence of this document. The success of the struggle for independence, the rapid establishment of state and self-government institutions, the democratic election of the Constituent Assembly, and its smooth operation, all proved the unconditional support of society for the most important political document of 20th century Lithuania. Thus, the fragile idea nurtured since the 19th century grew into a state.