First Mention of Lithuania
The name "Lithuania" is first mentioned in the Quedlinburg Chronicle, marking the earliest known reference to the country.
1009
1236
Battle of Saule
The Battle of Saule is fought between the Livonian Brothers of the Sword and the Samogitians, resulting in a decisive victory for the Lithuanians and the consolidation of their territory.
1253
Coronation of Mindaugas
Mindaugas is crowned as the first and only King of Lithuania, establishing the Kingdom of Lithuania.
1386
Union of Kreva
The Union of Kreva is signed, leading to the marriage of Lithuanian Grand Duke Jogaila to Polish Queen Jadwiga and the Christianization of Lithuania.
1410
Battle of Grunwald
The Battle of Grunwald is fought between the Polish-Lithuanian alliance and the Teutonic Knights, resulting in a significant victory for the allied forces.
1569
Union of Lublin
The Union of Lublin is signed, creating the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, a dual state of Poland and Lithuania.
1795
Third Partition of Poland
The Third Partition of Poland results in the dissolution of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, with Lithuanian territories being divided among the Russian Empire, Prussia, and Austria.
1918
Declaration of Independence
Lithuania declares independence from the Russian Empire on February 16, 1918, establishing the modern Republic of Lithuania.
1940
Soviet Occupation
Lithuania is occupied by the Soviet Union in June 1940, leading to its incorporation as a Soviet Socialist Republic.
1941
Nazi Occupation
Lithuania is occupied by Nazi Germany during World War II, resulting in significant suffering and loss of life.
1944
Soviet Reoccupation
The Soviet Union reoccupies Lithuania in 1944, leading to decades of Soviet control and repression.
1990
Restoration of Independence
Lithuania declares the restoration of its independence from the Soviet Union on March 11, 1990, becoming the first Soviet republic to do so.
1991
Recognition of Independence
Lithuania's independence is recognized by the international community following the failed Soviet coup in August 1991.
2004
EU and NATO Membership
Lithuania joins the European Union and NATO, marking a significant step in its integration into Western political and economic structures.
2015
Adoption of the Euro
Lithuania adopts the Euro as its official currency, further solidifying its economic ties with the European Union.
