Lithuanians enjoyed two decades of freedom to pursue their own cultural and religious traditions and speak their own language before Hitler and Stalin decided to destroy that freedom. Lithuania was assigned to Russias sphere of influence and Russian troops invaded the country June 15. 1940. Since that time the Lithuanian people have fought a determined struggle to rid themselves of Soviet domination. Hundreds of thousands were deported to Siberia or imprisoned between 1946 and 1952 alone. 30.000 Lithuanians died fighting for freedom. In May 1973 Lithuanians rioted in their capital for 2 days. demonstrating for freedom. The underground press flourishes: prayerbooks are printed and distributed clandestinely. petitions are circulated illegally.
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deported