Lithuanian agriculture. industry. and the arts all flourished during this special period. as the twin catalysts of liberty and independence triggered a continuing burst of Lithuanian creativity and accomplishment. The commemoration of Lithuanian independence is a sad time. too. because it makes us painfully aware that this alltoobrief burst of national energy was cut short in 1940 when the Soviet Union forcibly annexed Lithuania. Thousands of Lithuanian patriots were deported or killed by the Soviets in the early stages of their occupation. This sorrow was compounded when the Soviets reoccupied Lithuania at the close of World War II. when they deported 145.000 Lithuanians. and 60.000 more in March 1949. Soviet repression of the Lithuanian spirit continues today. Little over a week ago.
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deported