Economy of Estonia, Its People, Culture & Flag

People of Estonia

The ancestors of Estonians seem to have settled on the Baltic shores around 3500 BC, and were soon organized in loosely federated small states. Ethnic Estonians are a majority in the population amounting to almost 64%. Russians come second.

Many of the Russians or their ancestors settled in Estonia after the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) annexed the republic in 1940. Estonia is highly urbanized and about 69 percent of the people live in cities or towns, with nearly one-third of the total population residing in the capital, Tallinn. About 46 percent of the people are Christians. Estonia has an adult literacy rate of nearly 100 percent. Education is compulsory for 9 years starting from age 7.

Economy of Estonia

The Economy of Estonia was agriculture based in the early 1900s. Soviet rule resulted into collective economics, but after independence in the 1990s, Estonia transformed its economy from a centrally planned system to a free market. Estonia is a member of the World Trade Organization and is steadily moving toward a modern market economy with increasing ties to the West, including the pegging of its currency to the euro. The strong

electronics and telecom sectors have benefited the economy. The economy of Estonia is greatly influenced by developments in Finland, Sweden, and Germany, its major trading partners.

Flag of Estonia

Estonia's flag contains three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), black, and white. The pre-1940 flag was restored by the Soviet Union in May 1990.
Please click here to view the Flag of Estonia

Arts, Culture and Music of Estonia

Folk songs are an important part of Estonian culture. Estonia's literary tradition began to develop in the early 19th century. Cultural events in Estonia include ballet, opera, and drama performances that are mostly based in Tallinn. Estonia has two symphony orchestras that perform at the Estonia Concert Hall in Tallinn. Spectator sports like basketball and ice hockey are popular. Museums include the Estonian Museum of Art and the Estonian History Museum, both located in the capital, and the Estonian National Museum, located in Tartu.

Information on Estonia, Its Geography & History

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Economy of Estonia, Its People, Culture & Flag