The dramatic photo taken on 18 November 1988 by Juris Kalniòð expresses the hopes and the determination of the Latvian nation at that time. The Monument of Liberty had become the focus of demonstrations already on 14 June 1987, when members of Group “Helsinki ‘86” defied authorities and laid down flowers to commemorate those deported on that day in 1941. Popular pressure forced the Communist regime in September 1988 to allow public display of formerly forbidden national symbols, including the Latvian flag. The newly founded Popular Front united Latvian patriots for political action. Only three years later, Independence day - November 18 - could again be celebrated in the internationally recognised independent state of Latvia.
Map showing the division of Eastern Europe
The Last Decree of Latvian President Karlis Ulmanis
Keys from the Cheka/KGB Building in Riga
A GULAG Face Mask
Territorial Utilisation Plan of Reichskommisariat Ostland
Induction Notice in the "Latvian SS-Volunteer Legion"
Small Latvian Flag from a Refugee Boat
Carbine Used by a Partisan
Surveillance by the KGB
Independence Day Demonstration 1988