Estonia
Estonia, officially the Republic of Estonia, is a country situated in Northern Europe. It shares its northern border with the Gulf of Finland across from Finland, while the Baltic Sea lies to its west, across from Sweden. To its south is Latvia, and to the east, it shares a border with Russia. The nation comprises the mainland, the larger islands of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa, along with over 2,300 other islands and islets lining the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea.
Geography and Cities
The capital and largest city of Estonia is Tallinn, positioned on the northern coast along the Gulf of Finland. Tartu, another major urban center, is known for its university and cultural significance.
Language and Demographics
The Estonian language, belonging to the Finnic language family, is the official language spoken by the majority of the population, which is approximately 1.4 million. The Estonians, or Estonian people, are a Finnic ethnic group indigenous to this region.
History
Current-day Estonia has been continuously inhabited since around 9,000 BC. Historically, the indigenous Estonian populace was among the last pagan civilizations in Europe to convert to Christianity, a change that occurred during the Northern Crusades of the 13th century. The country's sovereignty has shifted numerous times due to its strategic location, ultimately gaining independence from the Russian Empire on February 24, 1918.
Economy
The economy of Estonia is considered advanced with high living standards and sophisticated infrastructure. Estonia has made significant advancements in technology and is known for its digital initiatives, including being a pioneer in e-government and digital services.
Foreign Relations
Estonia maintains active foreign relations and is a member of multiple international organizations, including the European Union, NATO, and the United Nations.
Culture
The vibrant culture of Estonia is shaped by its historical ties to Germany, Sweden, and Russia. Estonian culture encompasses a rich tradition in music, literature, and art, with events such as the Estonian Song Festival exemplifying its cultural heritage.