The idea of an independent Latvia became a reality at the beginning of the 1900s. The course of WWI activated the idea of independence. WWI directly involved Latvians and Latvian territory. Courageous Latvian riflemen called the latviesu strelnieki fought on the Russian side during this war, and earned recognition for their bravery far into Europe. 

The post-war confusion was a suitable opportunity for the development of an independent nation. Latvia proclaimed independence shortly after the end of WWI – on November 18, 1918. The first to recognise Latvia's independence was Soviet Russia, which relinquished authority and pretences to Latvian territory for all time. However, future actions proved that these had been empty promises.

The international community recognised Latvia's independence on January 26, 1921. In this year Latvia also became a member of the League of Nations and fully took part in the activities of democratic nations. During that time Latvia became known world-wide as a country that cared for and paid special attention to the rights of minorities. Latvia was often times mentioned as an example of other nations in the area of minority rights.

Because of the world economic crises there was a growing dissatisfaction among the population at the beginning of 1930s. Coup d'etat took place in Riga on May 15, 1934. The activities of the Parliament (the Saeima) and all the political parties were suspended.

Rapid economic growth took place in the second half of 1930s, due to which Latvia reached one of the highest living standards in Europe. Because of improving living standarts the Latvian society did not much oppose the authoritarian rule of the Prime Minister.

Text: Raimonds Ceruzis
Photo credits and illustrations: Latvian Academic Library, Latvian Museum of Photography, L.Pigozne, V.Ridzenieks, A.Tenass