Latvia

Latvia, officially the Republic of Latvia, is a country in the Baltic region of northern Europe. It is one of the three Baltic states, along with Estonia to the north and Lithuania to the south. It borders Russia to the east and Belarus to the southeast and shares a maritime border with Sweden to the west.

After centuries of being ruled by different countries, Latvia became independent on 18 November 1918. Its independence was interrupted during World War II. Latvia became fully independent again in 1991 through a peaceful movement called the Singing Revolution.

Today, Latvia is a democratic and developed country. It is part of important international groups, including the European Union, NATO, and the United Nations. The capital and largest city is Riga, known for its beautiful old buildings and rich history.

Etymology

The name Latvija comes from the ancient Latgalians. They were one of the four Baltic tribes that helped form the modern Latvians. The other tribes were the Curonians, Selonians, and Semigallians. A writer named Henry of Latvia made Latin versions of the country’s name. These versions inspired names such as "Letonia" in Romance languages and "Lettland" in Germanic languages.

History

Main article: History of Latvia

Latvia's history began around 3000 BC when the ancestors of the Latvian people settled near the Baltic Sea. By 900 AD, four tribes lived in the area: the Curonians, Latgalians, Selonians, and Semigallians.

In the 12th century, German missionaries arrived. By the 13th century, much of the region was ruled by Germans, forming a crusader state called Terra Mariana.

During the 16th century, Latvia was influenced by both Poland and Sweden. In the 17th century, it became part of the Russian Empire. By the 19th century, the Latvian people began to develop a stronger national identity. In 1918, after World War I, Latvia declared independence and became a sovereign nation.

In 1940, Latvia was occupied by the Soviet Union, and later by Nazi Germany during World War II. After the war, it was again incorporated into the Soviet Union until 1991, when it regained full independence following the collapse of the Soviet Union. Since then, Latvia has become a democratic country and joined both NATO and the European Union in 2004.

Geography

Main article: Geography of Latvia

See also: Baltic Sea, Baltic states, and Northern Europe

Latvia is a country in Northern Europe. It is on the eastern shores of the Baltic Sea. Latvia is mostly flat land. It shares borders with Estonia to the north, Russia to the east, Belarus to the southeast, and Lithuania to the south. It also has a maritime border with Sweden.

Latvia has a temperate climate. It has four seasons. Winters are cold with snow. Summers are warm and sunny. The country has many forests, rivers, and lakes. Latvia works hard to protect its nature. Animals like deer, wolves, and beavers live in Latvia's forests and wetlands.

Government and politics

Main articles: Politics of Latvia and Government of Latvia

Latvia follows rules set by its Constitution of Latvia. The country has one parliament called the Saeima. The Saeima makes laws, decides budgets, and watches over the government. Latvia is a representative democracy where everyone can vote, called universal suffrage. A prime minister and cabinet lead the government and handle everyday work.

Latvia is split into local areas and has special historic regions like Courland, Latgale, Vidzeme, and Zemgale. The biggest city is Riga. Latvia works with groups like the United Nations, European Union, and NATO. It has good relationships with nearby Estonia and Lithuania, plus Nordic countries. Latvia’s military helps keep peace and works with NATO friends.

Economy

Main article: Economy of Latvia

Latvia is part of the World Trade Organization and the European Union. In 2014, it started using the euro instead of its old money, the Lats.

From the year 2000, Latvia grew quickly, but in 2008 and 2009, the world’s economy had problems. This hurt Latvia’s economy. Many people lost jobs.

Latvia has been building up its economy again. By 2019, more people had jobs.

Infrastructure

Transport

Main article: Transport in Latvia

Transport is important for Latvia’s economy. The biggest ports are in Riga, Ventspils, Liepāja, and Skulte. The main airport is Riga International Airport, which has flights to many places.

Latvia’s railways are mostly built to a special size used in Russia, but work is happening to make them match Europe’s railway size with the Rail Baltica project.

Energy

Main article: Energy in Latvia

Latvia uses hydroelectric power and wind farms for energy. The country also stores gas underground at the Inčukalns facility. Plans are to add more wind farms to make more energy.

Demographics

Main article: Demographics of Latvia

Riga is the capital and largest city of Latvia. In 2023, the total fertility rate in Latvia was about 1.36 children born per woman, which is lower than needed to keep the population stable. Life expectancy in 2013 was around 73 years.

In 2025, Latvians made up about 65.5% of the population, with Russians being the largest minority at 24.1%. Other groups include Belarusians, Ukrainians, Poles, and Lithuanians. Latvia has a rich history of different cultures due to its location near the Baltic Sea and its past under Russian and Soviet rule.

Latvian is the official language, belonging to the Baltic language family. Russian is also widely spoken, especially among older generations. The most common religion is Christianity, with many people belonging to either the Evangelical Lutheran or Catholic churches. Latvia has a universal healthcare system, though it faces challenges like long waiting times for treatment. The country is working to improve its science and technology sectors.

Culture

Main article: Culture of Latvia

Latvia has a rich tradition of folklore, with many folk songs and dances that are hundreds of years old. In the 19th century, Latvians celebrated their culture more, which is seen as a golden age for Latvian arts. Even during hard times, Latvian artists kept creating and sharing their work.

One of the most important events in Latvia is the Latvian Song and Dance Festival, held every five years. Thousands of people join in to sing and dance, showing the strength of Latvian culture. Latvia also loves music, and many famous choirs and orchestras perform there.

Latvian food uses many local ingredients like potatoes, cabbage, and pork. Fish is popular because Latvia is near the sea. Traditional dishes include grey peas with speck and a soup called sorrel soup. Rye bread is a favorite and is a staple in many meals.

Main article: Sport in Latvia

Ice hockey is the most popular sport in Latvia, with many players becoming famous around the world. Basketball is also very popular, and Latvia has produced many great players who have played in international competitions. Other sports that Latvians enjoy include football, tennis, and cycling. Latvia has had success in the Olympics, with athletes winning gold medals in events like BMX racing.