The country declared independence on November 18, 1918, bringing to an end some 200 years of Russian rule. The tiny republic then had to battle both internal and external struggles until the Soviet invasion of 1940 snuffed out its brief existence as a sovereign state.
Latvia did not regain its freedom again until 1991.
Prime Minister Evika Siliņa reflected on the nation’s perseverance in her Independence Day message: “Celebrating Latvia's independence, we also celebrate our perseverance.
“Because with perseverance we bravely won our country, overcoming others' greater strength. Because we persevere in working together to make Latvia safe and prosperous.
“Our country is the people of Latvia yesterday, today and tomorrow. We are proud of everyone who represents Latvia, and we are happy about our achievements in art, sports and technology, which are also changing the world.”
Siliņa added: “Opinions differ on how to build our country. However, it is based on unifying values–the Latvian language, our land and freedom. Therefore, let's also remember on a daily basis that everyone is important and only together can we build Latvia.”
