With support from the University of Richmond

History News Network

History News Network puts current events into historical perspective. Subscribe to our newsletter for new perspectives on the ways history continues to resonate in the present. Explore our archive of thousands of original op-eds and curated stories from around the web. Join us to learn more about the past, now.

Estonia removes Soviet memorial

The Estonian authorities have removed a contentious Red Army war memorial in the capital, Tallinn, despite overnight protests that left one person dead.

More than 40 people were injured and 300 arrested during clashes at the site as police used tear gas to disperse mainly ethnic Russian demonstrators.

Russia says the memorial should not be removed, but many Estonians see it as a reminder of decades of Soviet rule.

The move provoked angry condemnation from Russian officials and lawmakers.

The memorial, a bronze statue of a Soviet soldier, was erected in 1947. The remains of Soviet soldiers are thought to be buried nearby.

Related Links

  • Estonia braces itself for violent unrest
  • Russia: Estonia's actions to Soviet soldier monument 'disgusting'
  • Read entire article at BBC