For centuries Lithuanias empire extended clear across Eastern Europe and her influence was felt throughout the area. But dark days fell on Lithuania when she was annexed to czarist Russia in the late 18th century. Yet her love of freedom and independence was kept alive and carried to other lands by emigrants from her Baltic shores. And her spirit of liberty reasserted itself 50 years ago. on February 16. 1918. when the Lithuanian Republic was born and Lithuania was restored to the roll of free nations. For 22 years the republic prospered and grew. until she was seized and annexed by Soviet Russia in the expanding World War in 1940. Her 20 years of freedom shine with the brightness of a guiding star. marking forever the hopes and aspirations of Lithuanians everywhere. The spirit of freedom which is the heritage of Lithuania is the gift of all Lithuanian Americans to the United States. Lithuanian immigrants who have come to our shores over the last hundred years were welcomed with a spirit of brotherhood. fraternity. and equality which was more than returned by these new Americans. Drawing from the spirit of Lithuania. which we commemorate today. these Lithuanian Americans. many of whom live in the Greater Cleveland area. have contributed to the freedom. liberty. and equality of all Americans. It is my earnest hope that the freedom which is the spirit of Lithuania will be restored to her.
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immigrants emigrants