Estonia has only been independent since 1991. It has been occupied by many countries in the last centuries - and was an occupied territory under Russian control from the end of World War 2 up until 1991. During that period the population changed from being approx 75% Estonian to approx 50% Estonian - Russian citizens were brought into the country to replace the deported Estonians. Russia "relocated" two hundred thousands people from the Baltic States to the Siberian Gulags. Any influential citizens, wealthy farmers (ie those who owned more than 30 acres of land or had ever employed a farm labourer), officers in the armed forces, politicians, jews and enemies of the state - and their entire families, were transported in cattle trucks. Over 40% of these relocated people died of malnutrition and disease. After Stalin's death some were allowed to return to their homelands. The Russian influence with its utilitarian architecture is obvious throughout the area.
@rosie00 Hi Lesley - we didn't either - it's been really educational - it makes your heart cry to hear what these countries have been through. And, as an aussie, it really makes you appreciate not having a shared border with another country!!
@madeinnl Hi Ko - thanks for the Fav - that's very kind of you. I liked this shot because it shows the building which we think must have been the gate house for the castle - and then the type of industrial, utilitarian building that appeared in the Russian regime - such a contrast. :)
Such a juxtaposition- and so much evil done. History is replete with it. It's ironic the sunlight casts such a pretty light on the architecture that represents it. Good shot.
September 23rd, 2018
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