The Singing Revolution

Book excerpt: Tells the story of Estonia's non-violent struggle for freedom from Soviet occupation. Song was the weapon of choice in 1987-1991 when Estonians wanted to end the occupation. The Singing Revolution is the name of the step-by-step process that led to the reestablishment of Estonian independence in 1991, a non-violent revolution that overthrew a very violent occupation. It was called the Singing Revolution because of the role that singing played in the protests of the mid-1980s. Singing had always been a major unifying force for Estonians during the 50 years of Soviet rule. It began with the Laulupidu song festival in 1947 and a poem set to music that escaped the Soviet censors and became the rallying song of the people. The poem, written by Lydia Koidula, was Mu isamaa on minu arm (Land of my fathers, land that I love). The composer was Gustav Ernesaks. Includes archival film footage and commentary from many survivors of the era.