Latvia

Discussion in 'Free Thoughts' started by Thor, Aug 20, 2002.

  1. Thor "Pfft, Rebel scum!" Valued Senior Member

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    You don't seem to enjoy any of it. You're always here

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  3. Avatar smoking revolver Valued Senior Member

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    Actually I have DSL so my connection is almost all time on and there is also truth that I find more pleasure in somehow intellectual talks with sciforumers than hang out in a strip club.

    I'm more the lone wolf type person, don't like big parties.
     
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  5. Avatar smoking revolver Valued Senior Member

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    ECOTOURISM IN LATVIA

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    Latvia is among the few countries left in the world where natural ecosystems, largely untouched by man, still thrive in over 50 percent of its territory. It is a haven for the tourist who seeks to experience a land where nature and tradition have coexisted in harmony from time immemorial.

    The country that we today call Latvia has long attracted foreigners – at first, invaders of all kinds, and later travellers and adventure seekers. For example, since the 1830s the region surrounding the city of Sigulda has been called the “Switzerland of Vidzeme” by German travellers who compared the sandstone banks of Sigulda’s Gauja valley with those of the Elba river in Saxony.

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    The Gauja valley

    Unfortunately, in the 20th century Latvia suffered through two world wars, and from 1940 until 1991 it was occupied and isolated behind the Iron Curtain by the Soviet Union. As a result, Latvia has been relegated to a “blank spot” on modern European and world tourist maps. Today, this largely unknown land is waiting to be discovered, ready to be revealed as the colorful mosaic that is Latvia.


    Diversity

    Where else can one find greater diversity? In Latvia you will find primordial wilderness areas characteristic of Scandinavia, a rich cultural heritage comparable to Middle Europe and a countryside of pastoral serenity.

    Latvia – a land of diverse terrain where plains interchange with hillocks and river valleys. It is stately forests, broad marshes and clear waters. It is meadows, fields, groves, alleys, gardens and parks. Together these features form a unique mosaic that is the landscape of Latvia. It is a haven for the tourist who loves nature, respects tradition and has an interest in the culture of the local inhabitants. It is a place for those who enjoy social interaction and value the sense of achievement that comes from active approach to relaxation.

    The Green Heart of Europe

    If the territory of Latvia were magically transported to the heart of Western Europe, and the “blank spot” filled with its natural colors, what would be the result? We would see a territory resembling a nature preserve or national park, surrounded by the highly urbanized landscape of modern Europe.

    Few countries remain in the world whose territories are dominated by ecosystems largely untouched by man. Where forests, marshes, lakes and rivers have developed over the centuries at their own pace, with minimal human interference. Where pristine sandy beaches stretch for 300 km unspoiled by resorts, restaurants or hordes of holidaymakers. No where else in Europe will you find such a large population of the black stork and the lesser spotted eagle. They represent 10% and 12% respectively, of the world population of these rare species.

    Within 64,589 sq.km of territory, you will find hundreds of wolves and lynxes, 4,000 otters and 50,000 beavers.

    World Wars I and II, and a brutal communist regime exacted a heavy price on human life throughout Latvia, leaving a present day population density of 38 inhabits to 1 sq.km. But nature has thrived, filling the gap left by the horrors of war.

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    The rare black stork


    Forests

    Latvian forests are located in a mixed forest zone consisting of northern coniferous and southern deciduous trees. You will find a pine forest next to a linden tree forest, and throughout a diverse spectrum of other species. Because of the unique climate and terrain nearly one quarter of Latvia’s forests grow on wetlands. Many plant and animal species which can only survive in constant habitats have found a home here. It is the existence of the wetlands forests that insures a high standard of biological diversity. About 10% of Latvia’s forests meet the criteria for a natural forest. Latvia’s forests also harbor a rich supply of berries, wild strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and loganberries. The berry-picking season lasts from late June until late September. It is also the time for gathering mushrooms. The most popular mushrooms are the edible boletus, orange cap boletus, chanterelles and rusulla. If in the 1930s Latvia was known for its butter and bacon exports, then today it is known for its export of chanterelles. Apart from clearly marked private lands, the wealth of Latvia’s forests, berries, mushrooms and hazelnuts is accessible to anyone.


    The Coast

    The sea and coastal zone, which stretches 494 kilometres along the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Riga, is an important part of the Latvian landscape. Sand dunes of up to 32 metres, sandy beaches, rivers and their estuaries, forests, marshes and lakes form a continuous ecosystem that has developed as a result of interaction of the land and sea.

    During the 50-year Soviet occupation most of the coast was a restricted area because it was considered a frontier zone. Commercial and recreational activity within this area was restricted. Today, this zone is still home to picturesque fishing villages that appear to have stepped out of a page in history. These villages were originally settled by the Livs, an ancient Finno-Ugric tribe that lived along the Baltic coast.

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    coast line, gulf of Riga

    Coastal fishing traditions are essential part of Latvian culture. A fishing expedition with local fisherman, including preparation of the catch, can be an unforgettable experience. The fragrance of smoked fish is the unmistakable calling card of a coastal fishing village.

    The small harbors, which were neglected during the Soviet era, are once again coming to life and await yachtsmen. Sailing from harbor to harbor it is possible to traverse nearly half of Latvia.

    Unique natural areas have survived in coastal lowlands, one of these being Pape Lake and its surrounding environment. It is a typical 1,200 ha coastal lake. Rare species of birds, such as the bearded tit, common and little bittern, the corncrake, the hen harrier, the little and spotted crake nest in the lake and its surroundings. The lake and the nearby Nida marsh are important stopovers for bean and white-fronted goose and curlews during migration. The lakeshore boasts one of the few bird-watching towers in Latvia. Millions of land dwelling birds and thousands of migratory bats travel through the strip of dry land between Lake Pape and the Baltic Sea every year.


    Marshes

    Compared to other European countries, marshes take up a significant proportion of Latvia. 4.9% of Latvia’s territory consists of open marshes. 70% of this marshland is largely undisturbed by human activity. Within these territory there are more than 20 protected plant species.

    There are at least 15 species of birds that nest in marshlands, including the crane, golden plover, black grouse, whimbrel, merlin and peregrine. During periods of bird migration the marshes are important resting place for cranes and geese. There are 10 insect species and a rare species of snails. Marshes are also highly valued by berry pickers for the wide range of berries that grow there, including cranberries, cloudberries, cowberries and bilberries.


    Teici State Reserve. It covers an area of 190 sq.km and is the largest protected marsh in the Baltic. A raised bog covers the larger part of the territory but there are also 19 lakes, hollows, mineral soil islands, fens, swamps, and natural meadows. The most intensive peat creation process in Latvia can be observed here. It also has the largest concentration of pre- migratory cranes in Latvia. An ancient Russian village of Russian Oldbelievers (people who hold to the Russian Orthodox as well as old pagan beliefs) still exists on one of the marsh islands. The marsh can only be entered in the company of a guide

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    one of our biggest marshes - Tirelpurvs

    Lakes and Rivers

    Latvia has over 12 thousand rivers that stretch for 38,000 kilometres, as well as 2,256 lakes with a collective area of 1000 sq.km. Eastern Latvia, where many of these lakes are found, is known as the Land of the Blue Lakes. Nearly all inland waters are pollution-free and ideally suited for swimming and fishing. Although some of Latvia’s rivers have had their courses straightened, most large and medium size rivers retain their natural contours. As a result, their banks are home to such now rare European wildlife as otter, beaver and common kingfisher. Latvia is one of the few places in the Baltic Sea region where natural salmon spawning areas still remain. There are plenty of rivers suitable for canoeing and rafting.

    Gauja National Park. The Gauja - Latvia’s longest river, extremely popular with tourists because none of its 452 kilometres has been regulated from its original course. For 90 kilometres the Gauja flows through an ancient river valley that is the heart of the Gauja National Park. Nowhere else in Latvia will you find so many steep banks, ravines, streams, sandstone and dolomite cliffs, and caves, as in the ancient Gauja river valley with its tributaries.

    Like other national parks in the east of the Baltics, the Gauja National Park includes natural territories relatively untouched by man, as well as historic rural landscapes, and important ancient monuments. The park also offers walking trails, observation points, rest places, well established camping facilities, car parks, cafes, various types of tourist cabins, information centers and the services of knowledgeable guides.

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    the Gauja river



    Rural Farms

    The soul of Latvia is revealed in the typical rural farmyard, where one lives in harmony with nature’s laws and rhythms. It is a place where ancient traditions are respected and annual festivals are joyously celebrated.

    On Ligo eve (Summer solstice) the traditional bonfire is lit in almost every yard. Ligotaji (the celebrants of the festival) who, during the day have gathered colorful Janu zales (field flowers), head off in pairs to seek the legendary secret fern blossom that blooms only once a year on this night. The single family farm is an integral part of the Latvian landscape. Many still look just as they did centuries ago.


    The Latvian landscape is also unimaginable without its stately old trees, usually oaks that are several hundred years old and can be found in farmyards as well as in the fields. Here as well, Latvia has become home to 9,000 pairs of white storks. Today, an increasing number of farmers are opening their farms to tourists. More than 100 farms offer bed and breakfast services and a variety of leisure activities.

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    Protected Nature Areas

    Latvia has a long tradition of nature conservation. The first laws and regulations concerning the use of forests were passed as early as the 1500s and 1600s. However, in the 1800s an effort was made to reforest the Baltic coastal dunes and the Gulf of Riga. In the 1900s proposals for conservation areas were initiated. The first protected area in Latvia was in the Kurzeme region - an island - Moricsala in the Usma Lake.

    At present 6.8 % of Latvian natural territories are protected by law. There are five nature reserves, two national parks, and 240 protected areas (nature parks, protected landscape areas, restricted areas and biosphere reserves). Together, these places make up Latvia’s natural heritage, which awaits the visit of the keen eco-tourist, and offers a wealth of experience.

    Text: Valdis Pilats, The Gauja National Park
    Photographers: A.Eglitis, J.Pigoznis, V.Pilats, J.Zalans
     
    Last edited: Aug 22, 2002
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  7. Adam §Þ@ç€ MØnk€¥ Registered Senior Member

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    Great pictures you've been posting, Latvia looks great.

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  8. Avatar smoking revolver Valued Senior Member

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    RUSSIANS IN LATVIA

    Russians in Latvia at the Time of the Russian Empire

    1. The History of the Russian Population in the Territory of Latvia
    The history of Russians in Latvia is quite long - about a thousand years. Russian and Livonian chronicles state that the first Russian merchants came here as early as the XII-XIII centuries. But up to the time of Latvia’s complete incorporation into Russia in 1795, the Russians made up a very small part of the population here.

    The most complete picture of the Russian population in Latvia at the time of the Empire is given by the First All-Russia Census of 1897. According to its data, at the end of the XIX century there were quite a number of Russians in Latvia - 171 thousand people spread unevenly on its territory. The biggest number of Russians, some 77 thousand, lived in Latgale, 68 thousand (5% of total population) - in Vidzeme. The smallest part of the Russian population lived in Kurzeme and Zemgale - 26 thousand (3.89% of total population). By the end of the XIX century Russians had become the second biggest nationality in Latvia after the Latvians themselves.

    In urban areas of Latvia the Russian population was twice as large as in the country. 'Re only exception was Latgale where the number of city dwellers was only half as large as that of country dwellers. Half of the Russian population of Vidzeme, Kurzeme and Zemgale came from the nearby provinces of Russia. And in the Rezekne district of Latgale, for example, 10% of Russians had come from other provinces. The biggest number of newcomers came from the neighbouring provinces of the Empire - those of Kaunas, Vitebsk and Vilnius.

    Like all the other Eastern Slays of Latvia, Russians differed from other national groups with their high natural increment of population.

    In their social structure Russians differed from most of the nationalities of Latvia. The biggest social group among them were peasants (54%), and they made up the majority of Russians in Latgale. Middle classes made up 35% and hereditary and personal noblemen made up 8%. As far as their group characteristics are concerned, Russians were much like the Latvian Poles but differed from the Latvians who were mainly peasants and from the Germans who belonged mainly to the middle class.

    Formation of the quite large Russian national group in Latvia was due to several reasons. In the XIX century a large amount of Russian capital was invested in trade through the Baltic countries. The profits from this trade became the basis of a number of Russian owned manufacturing establishments. When Russia acquired Latvia, some Russian noblemen became landowners here. From the middle of the XIX century the highly developing industry of Latvia began to attract Russian workmen. The biggest social source of Russian newcomers, however, were Russian peasants fleeing from Russia because of widespread religious and social oppression.

    The most dynamic social group which began to settle in Latvia were the Russian merchants. Long ago the Polotsk principality and the merchants of ancient Novgorod established trade relations with Riga. Real penetration by Russian merchants became possible after the conquest of Riga by the troops of count Sheremetjev in 1710. But the Russian expansion was restrained by local regulations which strictly limited business activities of those merchants who did not belong to the Riga Merchant Guilds.

    By the end of the XIX century, there emerged quite an appreciable group of Russian manufacturers in Latvia. As far back as the beginning of the present century, there was founded the Kuznetsov Porcelain Factory near Riga. A very large number of Russians were employed in brickworks supplying the building industry. The most notable among these manufacturers were E.Nesterov (he had 500 workers in his yards), F.Nesadomov (120 workers), V.Chikov (over 100 workers), Y.Karjakin (about 200 workers). But Russians were not at the head of the local business at that time. For instance, the working share of one worker at the brick-yards made up 259 roubles per annum while the corresponding figure was 120,000 roubles in wine production which was the monopoly of the Germans. There was no Russian large capital investment in foreign trade operations.

    A big source of additional population were the Russian peasants. The mass migration of these peasants began in the second half of the XVI century and up to the beginning of the XX century it was sporadic. Its main reasons were religious oppression of Old Believers and a sharp aggravation of the economic position of peasants in Russia resulting, in part, from the conditions of serfdom.

    It is difficult to give an exact judgement of the educational and cultural standard of the Russian population in Latvia in Tsarist times. The highest level of literacy - 70% - was the privilege of the Russian orthodox males. The corresponding figures for Old Believers were: men 25%, women 8%. As for the female population in total, the level of literacy of Russian women was the lowest in Latvia at that time.

    2. Russian Mentality
    Under the conditions of tsarism the dominating trend of Russian mentality in Latvia became the idea of a political nation. Moreover, it were the Russians who were thought representatives of the only political nation in the Empire and bearers of the Russian political system and culture. The ideas of this kind served as ground for exercising, in Latvia, a persistent policy of russification at the time of Alexander III and Nicholas II (mainly before the revolution of 1905- 1907). At the same time Russians tried to distinguish their interests from the interests of the state. Little by little, a certain part of the Russians of Latvia began to consider themselves as one of the many nationalities of Latvia. The Russian daily newspaper “Rizhskij Vestnyik” established the notion of “the needs and wants of the local Russian population”. Since the 1860s there appeared local Russian social organisations. The period of bourgeois reforms of Alexander II stimulated the rise of national consciousness of the Russian population in Latvia. In the elections to town councils and to the State Duma of the Russian Empire local Russians participated on a political basis.

    The Russian National "Minority" in the Republic of Latvia

    1. The Russian Population in the Republic of Latvia
    On November 18, 1918, the Republic of Latvia was proclaimed as an independent democratic state. All the nationalities who lived in the territory of Latvia in the period of foreign rule, got the opportunity to develop as national minorities of the country. Ale Russians lost the status of their ethnic belonging to the Empire, but in Latvia they were given all the rights normally secured by democratic states.

    The years of independent Latvia were favourable to the growth of the Russian national group. Not only in the whole of Latvia but in all the historical regions of the country the number of this national minority grew constantly.

    According to the first statistical data of 1920 the number of the Russian population at that time was 91 thousand. In 1935 the number of the Russian minority had increased up to 206,4 thousand. During the whole period of independence, Russians remained the biggest national minority of the country. In 1935, the part of Russians in the whole structure of the population of Latvia made up 10.5% (in 1920 - 7.8%).

    The growth of the Russian population was due to several factors. The Civil war and the establishment of Soviet power in Russia caused a flow of refugees and emigrants to many countries, Latvia included. According to the Peace Treaty between the Latvian Republic and Soviet Russia, some lands of the Pskov province with a large number of Russians passed on to Latvia. But the main cause of the Russian population growth was their high natural birth rate. For example, in 1929 the natural increment of Russians was 2.8 thousand, while the natural increment of Latvians, whose total number in that same year was nine times as big as that of Russians, made up only 3.7 thousand.

    Russians used to have the biggest number of large families in comparison with other national groups of Latvia. As in the tsarist times, Russians still remained one of the “youngest” ethnic groups of Latvia. The Russian children aged under fourteen made up 14% of the total number of the children of Latvia of the same age. Russian families during the period of independence were characterised by a very high stability. The average number of divorces of Russian families was two times smaller than that of Latvian families and five times smaller than that of German families.

    Big changes took place in the structure of the territorial settlement of Russians in Latvia. Three quarters of the Russian population lived in Latgale, 14% in Riga.

    In comparison with the tsarist period of the history of Latvia, Russians acquired more “country and agricultural” features and lost those of “town and industry”. The overwhelming majority of Russians were engaged in agriculture (80%). 7% were engaged in industry, 4.9% - in trade. The fact that Russian inhabitants of the country had their farms mainly in Latgale, the least economically developed part of the country, did not stimulate them to social movement towards prestigious kinds of labour and agriculture. In the towns of Vidzeme, Kurzeme, and Zemgale the social picture of Russians approached the all-Latvian one. But even there, Russians did not belong to economically and socially advanced national groups. Russians differed from Latvians, Germans and Jews by a smaller part of property owners and a widespread use of child labour.

    The total level of literacy of the Russian population at the very beginning of the history of the Latvian Republic was lower than at the time of the Empire. Only 42% of Russian men and 28% of Russian women of Latvia could read and write in 1920. During the years of independence the number of Russian pupils at schools increased greatly (1.5 times - the highest rate in the period of 1925-1935). As a result, the difference between the number of Latvian and Russian students aged 6-20 was reduced considerably (54% and 47% correspondingly).

    Russians were underrepresented in institutions of higher education. In 1920 there were only 65 Russian students at the University of Latvia, in 1939 - 220 students.

    For a long time the Latvian Republic tried to integrate the Russian minority on the basis of a large national-cultural autonomy. National schools of Latvia widely used their right to teach children in their mother tongue. Russian schools were not an exception. The Russian language played a particularly important role at the stage of primary education. By the end of the 1920s, 92% of Russian children were being educated at Russian primary schools. The development of the network of secondary schools also took into account the demands of national minorities to receive education in their own language. At the end of the 1920s and the beginning of the 1930s there was an increasing tendency by parents from minority groups to send their children to Latvian language schools. In 1935 60% of Russian children were educated in their mother tongue.

    The popularity of the Russian language in Latvia resulted from the fact that Russians did not seek to learn the Latvian language and other minority languages properly.

    The Latvian language was not attractive to the Russian population of Latvia. In 1920-1930 only a little more than 15% of Russians could speak and write Latvian. The Latvian milieu of many towns was a good incentive for Russians to learn the Latvian language. 70% of Russian residents of Jelgava and more than 80% of those of Bauska, Valmicra and Kuldiga spoke Latvian.

    2. Political life and consciousness of the Russians of the Republic of Latvia
    The establishment of the Latvian State, in November 1918, made local Russians work out new principles of their relations with the government. Under the new conditions, the Russians of Latvia be- came a national minority whose special cultural interests were regulated by the Law on the Cultural-National Autonomy of Minorities, adopted by the People’s Council.

    Russians of Latvia enjoyed full rights as its citizens and, therefore, took part in the political life of the country. Russians, as a national minority, participated in the elections to the Constituent Assembly of Latvia and to all the four Saeimas.

    From two to six per cent of all Latvian electors voted for Russian parties. In the areas highly populated by Russians - Riga and Latgale - more and more Russian electors voted for Russian parties during the whole period of the parliamentary state.

    Special historical conditions determined a specific attitude of Russians towards the idea of national-cultural autonomy. They accepted the autonomous character of Russian culture in respect to Latvian culture. But they believed that there was no local autonomy in respect to Russian culture and Russian people in general. Local Russian society did not identify any special features characteristic of local Russians which would differentiate them from the Russians of Russia.

    During the period of the Latvian Republic, the local Russian inhabitants tried to work out their own principles of social consciousness. A characteristic feature of the Russian social consciousness was a continuous controversy between adherents of different ideas.

    At the beginning of the Republic, 1918-1919, the orthodox wing of the National-Democratic League (N.Bordonos) - the first Russian national union of Riga and, then, of the whole of Latvia - spoke in favour of ethnic purity of Russian social organisations. The liberal wing of the NDL and, later, the Russian Society of Latvia (N.Berejanski, S.Mansyrev) called for a close co-operation by the Russian minority with the whole Latvian society.

    From the liberal consciousness of the NDL there emerged some elements of a specific ideology among a part of the Russian population of Latvia – “democratic nationalism”. Its mouthpiece was the publicist Berejanski. He thought that the fate of the Russians of Latvia was not easy. Their historical motherland was in the hands of “Bolshevik internationalism”, the enemy of Russian national culture and ethics. Russians were grateful to democratic Latvia for granting the opportunity to develop their culture. But Russians themselves, N.Berejanski thought, had to strengthen to the utmost, within their consciousness, the notion of national values. The followers of this idea worked on the Russian newspaper “Slovo” (“Word”). At the same time the most famous Russian newspaper “Segodnia” did not pretend to propagate Russian national ideas, but advocated the ideas of defence of the cultural-national autonomy of all minorities.

    A flamboyant exponent of Russian national principles was N.Belotsvelov who considered that the conversion of Russians to nationalism was a natural result of the fate of emigrants fearing for the future of their culture.

    The ideas of “democratic nationalism” were supported by the leaders of the Russian Peasants’ Union which had a right-wing orientation. The RPU became the basis of the Russian Peasant faction of three deputies in the Fourth Saeima.

    A part of Russians belonged to the ultra-left of the political spectrum. (In the Fourth Saeima, one Russian represented the social democrats and one Russian was a communist representative). But the left-wing parties of Russians did not achieve any big success though they had a certain influence among sections of the workers of Riga.

    Russians in Occupaied Territory of Latvia in 1940-1990

    1. The Russians of Latvia in 1940-1941
    In summer of 1940 there began the most tragic events in the history of Latvia. The country lost its independence and was incorporated into the USSR.

    The attitude of the Russian milieu towards these events varied. Three kinds of positions can be discerned, in regard to the political changes:
    1. A complete disagreement with the Bolshevik regime was characteristic of the Russian inelligentsia and priests.
    2. A part of the Russian public of Latvia were under an illusion regarding Stalin's dictatorship, hoping that it would turn into a political system similar to that of the Russian monarchy.
    3. A full support for the Bolshevik regime in Latvia. During one year of Soviet power, Russians here were deprived of all their national periodicals, many of the prominent Russian public figures were subjected to repression or killed.

    But the new regime also found supporters among local Russians. Russian collective farms emerged in Latvia and there were a large number of Russians in the security services and units of the workers’ guard. The communist nomenclature was being rapidly developed, local Russians taking an active part in it.

    2. The Russians of Latvia in 1941-1944
    Latvia entered into the Second World War as a part of the USSR. Both Russians and Latvians shared the fate of Nazi policies of oppression.

    A part of the local Russian population took part in hostilities against fascism in the Red Army ranks and in the partisan movement, supporting the Communist party.

    But, at the same time, there were quite a number of Russians collaborating with the Nazi authorities. They worked on the newspapers propagandising the myth of “a national Russia” free of Bolsheviks and Jews, and “the liberating mission” of the Wehrmacht. Russians were won over to militarised units. The Nazis made advances to those of the Russian population who had suffered from the Bolsheviks. The newspapers of that time were full of information about Russian National culture. In Daugavpils there was opened a Russian theatre, in the Rezekne Teachers’ Institute - a Russian language class for teachers of Russian was set up, etc.

    An institution was created for representing the interests of the Russian population of the Generalgebiet of Latvia as well as the Russian Committee for the Affairs of the Russian population of Latvia. These were designed to help Russians with some of their economic, cultural and legal needs.

    3. Peculiarities of the post-war migration of Russians to Latvia
    After Latvians, the Russians are the largest ethnic group in today's Latvia. In 1989 this national group made up 34,8% of the whole population of Latvia and its total number was 905,5 thousand. In comparison with the demographic situation of the pre-war period, the number of Russians had increased 4.5 times. Their share in the national structure of the population of Latvia had increased 3.5 times.

    Such a big growth of the Russian population could not be explained solely by natural increase. The majority of the Russian national group in Latvia today are here as a result of a big migration movement, mainly from Slav republics of the USSR, first of all, from the Russian Federation.

    Russians preferred to settle in towns rather than in the country. They tended to choose such big cities as Riga and the like. Russians differed from Latvians in their social and professional characteristics. Over one third of the Russian population were engaged in industry (one quarter of Latvians), 7% of Russians (22% of Latvians) were engaged in agriculture, 1% of Russians (2.5% of Latvians) - in the sphere of culture and art. The percentage of Russians in administration was two times as large as that of Latvians (6.4% and 3%). In other social activities Russians differences were negligible.

    Russians were the biggest ethnic group in the USSR both in number and in ideological influence. Under the conditions of Soviet Latvia, Russians dominated the whole non-Latvian population of the Republic. Latvia was the place where consolidation of Russian- speakers on the basis of their mother tongue was successfully put into effect. The Russian language also formed a new group of Russian speaking Byelorussians, Ukrainians, Poles, Jews and Germans of Latvia. And though in the period of 1959-1979 the number of Russians in Latvia increased by 47%, the number of the non-Russian population considering Russian their mother tongue increased by 78%. A highly developed infrastructure was developed in Latvia on the basis of the Russian language (the system of secondary and higher education, science, means of mass media, state-party control of economy and social life).

    4. National consciousness of the Russians of the Latvian SSR
    During the whole Soviet period, the Russian mass media of Latvia played the part of active bearers of the communist ideology, influencing the consciousness of the Russians of Latvia. That is why this consciousness had purely communist features.

    For the whole Soviet period there was no suitable formula at the official level to express national-cultural features of this large group of Latvian residents. The ideology of the Communist party rejected the tradition of the Latvian Republic which identified the Russians of Latvia as one of its national minorities. In the USSR there existed a form of national-territorial autonomy of nations, but not for all nations, which made their social representation in the state bodies unequal and, as a result, their influence on social minds was unequal as well. A nation could be considered “fully-fledged” only if it possessed a state system in the form of a union republic. Therefore, there was only one nation in Latvia - Latvians. The Russians of Latvia, both those who had deep historical roots here, and those who chose it as a place of permanent residence after World War II, having no territorial autonomy, were not considered as an individual cultural and national community in the Republic.

    During the almost forty years of the history of the Russian communist consciousness of Latvia there were no new ideas. Such ideas came only with the first marked democratic changes in the USSR at the end of the 1980’s.

    The start of democratic processes brought about national awakening of peoples. New democratic tendencies gave equal chances to the national revival of both Latvians and Russians. Some part of Russians actively supported the Latvian awakening. Both individual representatives of the Russian public and some groups of Russians believed that “Atmoda” (Awakenining) should be irreversible. Thus, in July 1988, A.Maltsev was one of the 17 prominent figures of Latvian culture who signed an open letter to the Broadened Assembly of the Latvian Writers' League with the initiative of establishing a democratic People’s Front.

    The idea of establishing the Popular Front of Latvia was supported by the Russian writers of the Republic - L.Azarova, R.Dobrovenski, V.Dozortsev and M.Kostenetska, the journalist A.Grigorjev, A.Kazakov, the translator and bibliographer J.Abyzov, and many others. In 1989 L.Gladkov, Y.Dozortsey, V.Zhdanov, V.Kononov and M.Kostenetska were elected to the Council of the People’s Front of Latvia. V.Dozortsev became a member of the Board of the Council of the Popular Front of Latvia. A.Grigorjev was one of the editors of “Atmoda” (Awakening) - the newspaper of the PFL. The circulation of the Russian edition of “Atmoda” was quite big (15 - 100 thousand). It was popular not only with the Russian residents of Latvia but with the democratic public of Russia as well.

    The PFL became the basis of consolidation of the Russian Culture Society of Latvia (RCSL). The Constituent Assembly of the RCSL was held on March 4, 1989. The aim of the Society was 'to develop to the utmost the Russian national culture, to intensify traditional Russian-Latvian relations, cooperate with the representatives of all nationalities of the Republic".

    But at the same time quite a number of the Russians of Latvia viewed the revival of the Latvian state system with mistrust. This is shown by the results of a public opinion poll in 1989. Only 49% of the non-Latvian population supported the idea of the independence of Latvia (The number of Latvians supporting the idea made up 93%).

    “The International Front of the Working People of Latvia”, established in 1989, came out openly against the idea of Latvian independence.

    “The Interfront” aimed to win the sympathies of those Russians who were not deeply integrated into the Latvian society, did not speak Latvian and did not prize much the national characteristics of this country.

    Russians in the Restored Republic of Latvia

    1. Russian remigration
    The formation of the Latvian national state was accompanied by a number of political measures which were strategically aimed at the increase of the proportion of Latvians in Latvian society. Evidently, it couldn't be achieved without stimulating a big number of non- Latvians to leave the country. No less important incentive for remigration of Russians, as well as Ukrainians and Byelorussians, was the foundation of the independent states of Russia, Byelorussia and Ukraine in 1991 which could provide for a better development of the national identity of these peoples. But, of course, it can't be stated that remigration of Russians was characteristic only of the period of the restored independent Latvia.

    In 1991-1992 there was a big leap in the migratory outflow from Latvia. In 1991 the number of people who left the country exceeded by 11.2 thousand the number of arrivals, in 1992 the figure had increased to 47.2 thousand.

    Russian remigration from independent Latvia show that it has resulted in the ageing of the Latvian society and the loss of people of working age. While the number of immigrants aged 30-44 and under 18 made up 32% of the total number of immigrants, the same groups made up 61% of the remigrants in 1993.

    This broad Russian emigration from Latvia aggravated the problem of their own national identity. There appeared two tendencies in the Russian consciousness. One tendency is stimulating the ethnic consolidation of Russians. The other one, on the contrary, is reducing the intra-ethnic dependence. The second tendency becomes most apparent when a nation does not see any favourable prospects of its development within some national structure, when people consider their ethnicity as an obstacle to achieving social comfort. In this case, many people would prefer to assimilate in the milieu of the socially prestigious and dominating nation. If it is not so easy for themselves, at least, their children might have a chance to do so.

    2. Self-consciousness of the Russians in the Republic of Latvia
    The restoration of the Latvian Republic took place in the period of the crisis in the Soviet Union, leading to its complete break-up. And the Russian state system began to be restored in its place. For the first time in history there were established such conditions under which Latvia and Russia could coexist as independent and democratic states.

    This process had an immediate effect on the minds of the Russians of Latvia. They found themselves in a situation which suggested different norms of behaviour. One of them is a natural desire of people to develop within their own national culture which had had a longstanding support from the state. But taking up this option now meant remigration back to Russia.

    The formation of the legal state system in Latvia created conditions for advancing social organisations of the Russian residents of Latvia and of their social initiatives. The most well-known of them is the Russian Community of Latvia (President of the RCL is B.Borisov).

    The RCL was founded in 1991 immediately after the recognition of Latvia’s independence by the world community. At the first stage, the Russian Community included 360 members, in 1995 - over 800 members. From the very beginning the RCL determined cultural and social priorities – “creation of an integral real and effective system of different kinds of defence and mutual assistance, both spiritual, moral and material, for all members of the community during their lives”. According to the RCL’s ideology, the consolidating basis of Russians is the Russian language but not their ethnic origin. In the constituent documents of the Russian Community, the idea of the national minority of Russians in Latvia did not meet support. The RCL does not support the official standpoint distinguishing the Russian residents of Latvia by their political status - citizens of the Republic and non citizens, who were previously citizens of the former USSR. Neither does it differentiate ethnic Russians from other Russian-speaking residents of the country.

    The Russian Community of Latvia may be considered as reviving those elements of Russian consciousness which were cultivated at the time of the Latvian Republic in 1918-1940. Like in 1920-1930 there is a tendency to develop a Russian social infrastructure. Contemporary Russians appreciate the idea of cultural-national autonomy which had been put into effect in the pre-war Latvia. The RCL is a social organisation rather than a political one, but it has undertaken to strengthen the Latvian state system.

    The statutes of the Russian Community of Latvia still reflect, however, the difference between the Russian consciousness of the period of the restored Latvia and that of the pre-war State. At that time, life outside Russia was a tragedy for Russians. They couldn't go home where they could be physically destroyed. The Russians of pre-war Latvia hoped for the revival of the legal Russian state with which the connected their fully fledged development.

    Apart from the RCL the most prominent Russian national societies in Latvia are:
    1. The Balto-Slavonic society of cultural development and cooperation (the oldest Russian social society in contemporary Latvia, founded in 1988). The BSS includes about 100 members. The Chairman of the BSS is B.Popov.
    2.'Tle Latvian society of Russian culture. It was founded in 1989. The membership is about 100. The Chairman is Jury Abyzov.
    3. The centre of humanities and education “Yedi” established by the Council of the Old Believers' Community and the Orthodox Eparchy. The President is I.Ivanov.
    4. Tle Latvian Foundation of Slavonic Written Language and Culture. It was founded in 1989. 'Re members of the Foundation are the Riga Russian community, the Ukrainian society “Dnipro” and the Byelorussian society “Svitanak”. 7he President of the Foundation is M.Gavrilov.

    On June 16, 1995, eleven Russian national-cultural societies and other organisations of the Latvian Republic signed the agreement on the constitution of the Council for the Russian Societies of Latvia. The aim of the constituent agreement is “to promote preservation, study, and popularisation of Russian national traditions and culture, spiritual and ethical values and intellectual and creative heritage of the Russian people”.

    Text: Vladislavs Volkovs, the Institute of Philosophy and Sociology
     
  9. Captain_Crunch Club Ninja Valued Senior Member

    Messages:
    2,186
    i dont visit other countries for the nightlife; to me this is pointless and does'nt interest me one bit. call me old fashioned if you will, i go abroad to learn about the country and to experience different cultures. So what i'm reading from you that Russians are generally not liked or wanted in your country avatar?
     
  10. Avatar smoking revolver Valued Senior Member

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    19,083
    You speak like wise king Solomon

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  11. Avatar smoking revolver Valued Senior Member

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    19,083
    WELCOME TO LATVIA - Video

    A truly beautiful presentation of our country - you won't regret seeing this - promise

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    Latvia is in the heart of Europe and on its way to meet the challenges of the 21st century. This 5-minute video takes you on a musical tour of Latvia today – the people and the very special places that make it one of the Baltic Sea’s natural and cultural treasures.

    Featuring the song
    “Welcome to my Country” by Brainstorm.

    for all you who have DSL's or cables or value quality
    Mpeg - 32Mb

    quality suffers and I don't advice you this smaller one
    RealMedia - 18Mb


    say how you liked it

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    Last edited: Aug 22, 2002
  12. Captain_Crunch Club Ninja Valued Senior Member

    Messages:
    2,186
    wait-a-minute, you dont work for the Latvian tourist board do you?

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  13. Avatar smoking revolver Valued Senior Member

    Messages:
    19,083
    no
    just do my best to represent/present our country

    I'm a bloody patriot
     
  14. Captain_Crunch Club Ninja Valued Senior Member

    Messages:
    2,186
    whats that like then? you arent one of those blind patriots are you? its one thing im not - a patriot
     
  15. Avatar smoking revolver Valued Senior Member

    Messages:
    19,083
    no , I'm not. I see many bad things and I don't like our government and corrupted officials much, but that doesn't hold me back frm loving our country (not government), history, traditions, mythology, nature, culture(although it's far from ideal).
    And I'm loyal as weird as it sounds.
    Our world has many beautiful countries, many great people are not latvians, but Latvia is my home, I'm a latvian and there's no place like home to be elsewhere found.
    stand and fall for it lol
     
  16. Captain_Crunch Club Ninja Valued Senior Member

    Messages:
    2,186
    i'm happy for you, i really am. i've never felt like that.
     
  17. NenarTronian Teenaged Transhumanist Registered Senior Member

    Messages:
    1,083
    Hey Avatar

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    ,
    would you be willing to host a bunch of us if we all decided to visit Latvia? I'm thinking about visiting..

    P.S. - does Latvia have any Castles? I like castles
     
  18. Captain_Crunch Club Ninja Valued Senior Member

    Messages:
    2,186
    hey, thats not nice, you dont ask these sort of things......you just turn up. the element of surprise. lol, kidding. i'm hoping to travel when i finish uni.
     
  19. Avatar smoking revolver Valued Senior Member

    Messages:
    19,083
    There are some and there are many mansions owned long ago by the German dukes and landlords

    I unfortunately can't host people- student and short of cash. I think that in after some 4 years I could invite some sciforumers who would like to visit Latvia.
     
  20. NenarTronian Teenaged Transhumanist Registered Senior Member

    Messages:
    1,083
    I caN totally relate to being short on cash - aren't we all? Some castles huh, and mansions? One more point on the list of reasons to go to Latvia

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    Captain Crunch,
    I too plan on extensive travel throughout my life...as soon as i finish goddamned highschool. I believe that the summer between school and university me and a friend are gonna go on a really long bike tour of Europe - from Spain to Moscow we were thinking. It'll be awesome!

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    I'm also thinking of joining the Peace Corps after university - that'd be a pretty worldly experience too i think. Though i dunno, anything could go

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  21. Captain_Crunch Club Ninja Valued Senior Member

    Messages:
    2,186
    none of my freinds are interested in traveling. I've got itchy feet so to speak, i dont feel that i have a purpose when i'm not traveling which unfortunatly only happens once a year. And the rest of the time i feel dead.
     
  22. Avatar smoking revolver Valued Senior Member

    Messages:
    19,083
    Latvia in brief

    I saw no full statistics, and though few would be interested in them, you can't do without them either

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    don't notice- continue your discussion

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    Republic of Latvia, abbreviated: Latvia

    Latvian: Latvija
    Lithuanian: Latvija
    Estonian: Läti
    German: Lettland
    French: Lettonie
    Spanish: Letonia

    The name "Latvia" originates from an ancient Baltic (Indo-European) tribe - the Latgalians (in Latvian: latgali), who formed the ethnic core of the Latvian people.

    Country code: LV

    The Republic of Latvia was founded on November 18, 1918. It has been continuously recognised as a state by other countries since 1920 despite occupations by the Soviet Union (1940-1941, 1945-1991) and Nazi Germany (1941-1945). On August 21, 1991 Latvia declared the restoration of its de facto independence. (more...)

    Symbols
    The flag of the Republic of Latvia
    The coat of arms of the Republic of Latvia

    Geography
    Latvia is the central country of the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania). On the world map Latvia is to be found in North-eastern Europe, on the east coast of the Baltic Sea. The landscape of the country is marked by lowland plains and rolling hills. Most of the countryside is less than 100 metres above sea level. There are thousands of rivers and lakes in Latvia.

    Area: 64,589 sq.km or 24,937 sq.miles.
    Regions: Kurzeme, Zemgale, Vidzeme, Latgale.
    Total national border length: 1,862 km.
    Length of Latvia’s Baltic coastline: 494 km.
    Largest lake: Lubans, 80.7 sq.km.
    Deepest lake: Dridzis, 65.1 metres.
    Longest river within Latvian territory: the Gauja, 452 km.
    Largest river to flow through Latvian territory: the Daugava, total length 1,005 km, of which 352 km within Latvian territory.
    Highest point: Gaizinkalns, 311.6 metres.
    (Map of Latvia)

    (1 km = 0.62 mile; 1 m = 39.37 inches)

    Borders with other countries: Estonia, Russia, Belarus, Lithuania.
    Latvia is situated on a trading cross-roads and has long since served as a bridge between Western Europe and Russia. The famous "route from the Vikings to the Greeks" mentioned in ancient chronicles stretched from Scandinavia through Latvian territory along the Daugava River to the ancient Russia and Byzantine Empire.

    Climate
    Latvia’s weather is governed by a moderate oceanic climate, with pronounced cyclone activity and a considerable amount of precipitation.
    Summer: June - August.
    Winter: December - February.
    The average temperature in summer is 15.8°C (in the capital 16.1°C), the average temperature in winter is –4.5°C (in the capital –3.8°C).
    The warmest month - July, the coldest - January.
    The average precipitation amount in summer is 195 mm, in winter - 116 mm.

    Nature
    Latvia is situated in a nature zone between the vegetation of Northern and Central Europe. Latvia is a country of splendid and diverse natural landscapes. Forests cover 44 percent of the territory. The larger forest tracts are to be found in the northern part of Kurzeme. Here it is still possible to enjoy the beauty and uniqueness of nature untouched by man.
    Latvia distinguishes itself with a large variety of flora and fauna (total aprox. 27.7 thousand species).
    Latvia’s fauna is typical for a region with mixed forests. Latvia has the largest otter population in Europe, and there is a much greater chance of seeing the rare black stork in Latvia’s forests than in any other European country. (more...)

    Language
    Official language: Latvian.

    Hi - Sveiks!
    Goodbye – Uz redzeshanos!
    Yes – Ja!
    No – Ne!
    Thank you – Paldies!
    Please – Ludzu!
    Sorry – Atvainojiet!

    The Latvian language is a Baltic language, which belongs to the Indo-European family of languages. The Latvian language is considered one of the oldest of the Indo-European (European) languages. It is a non-slavic and a non-germanic language, similar only to Lithuanian. (more...)

    Most common foreign languages: English, Russian, and German.

    Government
    Type of government: democratic, parliamentary republic.
    Legislative power is in the hands of a single chamber parliament - the Saeima, consisting of 100 deputies. Parliamentary elections take place every 4 years.
    The country’s head of state is the President, who is elected by the Saeima for a period of 4 years. The President signs laws, chooses the Prime Minister (who heads the government) and performs representative functions.

    Electoral system: proportional representation. There is universal suffrage for Latvian citizens over 18 years of age.

    Memberships
    Latvia is a member of United Nations Organisation, Council of Europe, World Trade Organisation, Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe, Council of the Baltic Sea States, Euro- Atlantic Partnership Council, etc.

    Strategic goals
    Since the restoration of independence in 1991, Latvia plays an active role in world affairs. A key foreign policy goal is full membership in the European Union and NATO. (more...)

    Population
    Population in 2002: 2,351,400

    Ethnic composition (2000):
    57.6% Latvian,
    29.6% Russian, [Hey!- less Russians

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    ]
    4.1% Belorussian,
    2.7% Ukrainian,
    2.5% Polish,
    1.4% Lithuanian,
    0.4% Jewish,
    1.7% other nationalities.

    Latvians are the indigenous people of Latvia.
    The ethnic mix of the population of Latvia is largely the result of massive post-war immigration, which resulted in a decline in the share of ethnic Latvians from 77% in 1935 to 52% in 1989.

    Education
    The state guarantees free primary and secondary (high school) education. More than 90% of children attend state schools which provide free education. 9 years of primary education are obligatory. The most of the students attend state-universities. Apart from state-financed educational institutions, there are also private schools and private universities in Latvia. Latvia also has state- financed ethnic minority schools or classes where courses are presented in Belorussian, Estonian, Gypsy, Hebrew, Lithuanian, Polish, Russian and Ukrainian.

    Religion
    Largest religious confessions: Evangelic Lutheran, Roman Catholic and Russian Orthodox.
    Since the Reformation movement in the 16th century, the Lutheran church has played a leading role in Latvia.

    Cities
    Nearly one third of Latvia’s population (788 thousand) lives in the capital city Riga. Riga, the oldest still existing medieval city, was founded in 1201. The value of Riga’s cultural and historical significance has been recognised by the fact that its old city centre has been included in UNESCO’s list of the world’s most important cultural and natural sites.

    Largest towns and cities: Riga, Daugavpils, Jelgava, Jurmala, Liepaja, Ventspils, Rezekne, Valmiera and Jekabpils.
    Today, 77 towns and cities are located within Latvia’s borders. 23 cities have a population of over 10,000.

    Ports
    Latvia’s three major ports are Ventspils, Riga and Liepaja.
    Ventspils is the busiest port in the Baltic Sea region and is among the 15 leading European ports in terms of cargo turnover. (more...)

    Production
    The most prospective production sectors: information technologies, electronics and mechanical engineering, chemical and pharmaceutical industries, wood processing, food processing industry, textiles industry.

    Special economic zones: Ventspils Free Port, Liepaja Special Economic Zone, Rezekne Special Economic Zone. Incentives in special economic zones include 80-100% reduction in corporate, property and land taxes, full exemption from VAT and customs duties upon the import of goods into the zone from abroad.

    The largest trade-partner: the European Union.

    Currency
    Latvian national currency is the lats (LVL), 1 lats consists of 100 santims. The Latvian currency has remained strong and secure since its inception in 1993. The stability of lats is a result of covering the supply of the national currency with gold reserves, hard currency reserves, and investments in a diversified collection of foreign currencies.

    National holiday
    November 18, the date of the proclamation of Latvia’s independence.

    Most important traditional festival
    The annual celebration of the summer solstice, known as Jani is generally viewed as the most important Latvian holiday. Jani is celebrated on June 23 and 24. These days of celebration mark the summer solstice with a colourful array of ancient traditions whose origins date back thousands of years. (more...)



    © Text: Raimonds Ceruzis
     
  23. Avatar smoking revolver Valued Senior Member

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    19,083
    more on Latvian food

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    LATVIAN FOOD SPECIALITIES
    Any nation’s basic diet is defined by its geographical location. The wealth of Latvia has always been unevenly dispersed over its four regions. The table of a Zemgale nobleman differed from that of a Kurzeme fisherman or a Latgale peasant. According to principles of ethics expounded in Latvia’s oral traditions everywhere food was served by a white (i.e., virtuous) hostess on a clean table with a generous hand. The male head of the household cut the first slice of bread; members of the household bowed their heads out of respect for the leader; in quiet voices they thanked God and the giver. Bread was the fruit of work, which is holy in Latvian culture.

    Slaughtering of the cattle was adjusted with the seasons, which caused very interesting traditions to emerge. For the various holidays the food was very interesting.

    Most typical food specialities

    Infrequently a dessert called iejavputra is prepared from the yeast water. It is brought to a boil together with sliced dried apples. Rye or unrefined wheat flour is added to make porridge, which is sweetened with honey. Yeast can also be beaten into froth and served cool with milk.

    Sweet-sour rye bread (saldskabmaize) is baked from finely ground rye flour.

    Sklandu rausi is a type of bun that is traditionally baked in Kurzeme, Latvia’s western-most region. It is made of rye flour with carrots and potatoes, apple and cottage cheese pies. The name is derived from a word meaning “fence”. The buns are formed with a “fence” – a border which prevents the filling from running off and gives the bun a pretty appearance. The fence is made by lifting up the dough on the sides and twisting it into “sausages”, “herring-bones” or “ropes”.

    The Zemigalians and the Kursi make karasas from wheat flour, but in Vidzeme placeni (flat cakes) are made from barley meal.

    The women of Vidzeme make sutnes – a steamed mixture of grains. This dish is served with fresh or curdled milk.

    Beans and peas also a main staple of the Latvian diet. These are served in all seasons. In summer, broad beans are boiled with their pods and served with buttermilk or curdled milk. Peas are eaten during winter and always on the eve of the winter solstice (or Christmas Eve): boiled peas with a small amount of lard are heated in the oven. Pea balls (zirnu pikas) are made from boiled, mashed peas. At Christmas time you may also be served a smoked pig’s half head or only its snout with peas, beans, blood sausage and other types of sausages.

    The tables in Zemgale and Kurzeme are unimaginable without the traditional skabputra (sour porridge), a drink made from barley groats beaten together with milk.

    A refreshing drink called maizes kvass is made from bread crusts.

    Birch juice, either fresh or fermented, has always been a natural and healthy drink for Latvians in early spring and in the heat of the summer. This “elixir of life” is poured into a wooden barrel and sprinkled with grains of barley. The seeds sprout, creating a green cover, but the juice ferments with a special taste. Brown, fermented birch juice is a result of adding roasted rye bread crusts. Taste additives: black currant branches and peppermint. Nowadays birch juices are prepared with lemon and orange rind, raisins, cinnamon, etc. A skilled maker may even offer you birch champagne.

    Beer, whether dark or light, bitter or sweet (medalus), is an integral part of the Latvian summer solstice. On the so-called “Eve of Grasses” (23rd of June) you will be met by a hostess carrying cheese rounds and piragi (buns filled with smoked bacon), but the male head of the household carries about a pitcher of frothy home-made beer, serving it to his guests. The scent of summer fields, grass, and flowers overwhelms the senses. The Janu siers (Solstice cheese, Janu cheese) is prepared in every household. The cheese varies in its consistency from soft to hard, with caraway seeds or without them. Lean cheese is smeared with butter.

    The Latvian table will always surprise you. In the spring, especially in late April, you can prepare zidenis – a porridge made from pearl barley boiled together with a pig’s ear or tail, which symbolises long ears of grain and therefore should be eaten by the sower.

    At Easter coloured eggs are placed on the table. The eggs are usually a luscious brown, which is achieved by boiling them in onion skins. A fern-green colour comes from the leaves of the birch branches, which are used year-round to massage the pirts (steam-house) – goers. Frequently, eggs are wrapped in yarn, leaves, blades of grass, dried heather, lingonberry leaves or grains, which leave lovely designs on the egg’s brown hue. Eggs are also coloured with dried blueberries.

    During the winters in the olden days the Latvian homestead had very little milk to spare, but in the spring, when the cows calved, milk once again occupied a prominent position in the Latvian diet. In Vidzeme, farm cheese is served as a spread embellished with poppy butter. Boiled or baked potatoes are eaten with bacon and farm cheese fried with onions. Flat cakes are baked from rough wheat, buckwheat, barley meal or even bean flour.

    Poppy butter is made from dried, crushed or ground poppy seeds. The seeds are crushed or milled until they turn into a greasy, black mass. Staks or stenkis is a poppy mass diluted with milk or water. It is used as an additive to various foods: pea porridge, pea balls, as a frosting for flat cakes and bread.

    Kiselis (a dessert which is usually made from fruit, berries, also from flour and milk, and may by thickened with starch) is boiled from oats. If kiselis is served hot, then it is topped with cubed, fried, smoked or salted bacon fritters. When the gruel cools, it becomes the thick oat kiselis. As a dessert it can be eaten together with honey and is served along with a cup o refreshing milk.

    Nettle, sorrel, goose-foot (bot.) and horse-tail (bot.) soups are made in the spring. They are prepared with smoked pork, or boiled in water with barley meal, groats or pressed oats. Boiled eggs and sour cream are added to the soup.

    When the warm days commence, biguzis is made. Ripe rye bread is cut into small pieces or crumbled, then spring water is poured over the mass and sweetened with honey. Pressed cranberries, raspberries or red currants may be added during season. This food was called many names: nabaga cirtiens (the pauper’s stroke), nabagelis (pauper), or cuncu-runcu (which cannot be translated). Biguzis is set on a shelf for several hours in order for it to acquire its desired taste. Sometimes warm, sweetened linden, camomile, peppermint or caraway tea is poured over the bread.

    When Jani (the summer solstice) has passed, the summer turns toward its sister-autumn. Latvia’s marshes and forests still offer a wealth berries, nuts and mushrooms.

    © The Latvian Institute, 1999
     

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