In the 1300s the people and culture experienced their greatest outside influence
to the culture and lifestyle when Lithuania united with Poland. Under this rule
the Lithuanians almost wholly converted to Catholicism and the country expanded
it political, economic, and educational institutes. However, this union also placed
many ethnic Poles in positions of power and money, meaning the Lithuanians tended
to remain tied to the lands; in fact, many cities at this time became centers of
Polish culture.
The other great outside influence on the Lithuanian culture and lifestyle came in
the form of the Russians and Soviets. Falling under Soviet rule, life changed dramatically
in Lithuania. The people were heavily urbanized, the economy shifted to industry,
religion was outlawed, and ethnic Russians immigrated in large numbers. The Russian
language was also forced on the people, as were other aspects of Russian culture,
although in many cases this only encouraged Lithuanian pride, strengthening their
independence movement and creating a stronger Lithuanian identity.
Since independence, Lithuanian has again returned to its roots as life for many
people is focused on the lands, the Lithuanian language dominates, Catholicism has
returned (as has their famous hill of crosses), and traditional foods and traditions
have survived and even thrived. However, these past influences have also changed
the culture and lifestyle as new technologies have altered how work is done, the
cities remain economic and educational centers, and there remains a Russian and
Polish minority.
The flag of Lithuania is yellow,
green, and red. The yellow stands for the golden fields, sun, light, and goodness,
the green represents the forests, nature, freedom, and hope, while the red stands
for courage and the blood spilled in defense of the homeland.
Name: Republic of Lithuania
Independence: March 11, 1990; recognized September 6, 1991
Capital: Vilnius
Currency: Lithuanian Litas
Population: 3,515,858 (2013 estimate)
Ethnicity: Lithuanian
Language: Lithuanian
Religion: Roman Catholic