However. the dream was not brought to fruition due to the advent of World War I and the German onslaught. Following the German collapse in 1918. the Latvian national council again proclaimed the independence of Latvia. but that dream was once again destroyed when the Soviet government established the "Latvian Communist Government." creating tensions that led to the 1940 invasion of Latvia by the Red Army and its annexation into the U.S.S.R. Since that time. collective farming has been imposed upon these proud people who have also suffered. among other things. mass deportations to Soviet Russia. The United States has not recognized the forcible incorporation of Latvia into the Soviet Union and most western countries have been reticent in granting de jure recognition to that government. As we recognize Latvian Independence Day. let us remind our Nation and the world to continue to press not only for a free and independent Latvian State. but for the right of selfgovernment for all peoples.
Identified stereotypes
Describes Latvians as a 'proud people' who have suffered under Soviet rule.