Resistance Fighting Day In Estonia Date in the current year: September 22, 2024

Estonia proclaimed its independence in 1918. Sadly, the period of independence did not last long. In 1940, Estonia was occupied by the Soviet Union according to the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact. A year later, Nazi Germany invaded Estonia during the Second World War.

German occupation forces began to retreat from Estonia in September 1944. A group of Estonian nationalists and politician saw this as an opportunity to restore the country's independence. On September 18, they formed the National Committee of the Republic of Estonia. Otto Tief was appointed as Prime Minister and proclaimed the re-establishment of the independence.

Four days later, Soviet troops invaded Tallinn and overthrew Tief's government. When Estonia re-established its independence after the dissolution of the USSR, September 22 was proclaimed Resistance Fighting Day. It is marked with remembrance ceremonies, parades and rallies held throughout the country. The main ceremony is held at the Freedom Square in the capital city of Tallinn.