1939-1940 1941-1944

The years of Soviet occupation in the Baltic states began after mutual assistance pacts were concluded in 1939. These agreements granted the Soviet Union permission to establish military bases in the region. In the summer of 1940, the Red Army entered the Baltic states and Soviet authorities insisted that the existing governments resign.

Following this, communist administrations were installed, and elections were held which resulted in the Baltic states being incorporated into the Soviet Union. Mass deportations of those deemed unacceptable occurred in June 1941. This period led to initial reactions of relief when German forces arrived in the area shortly after.