Identiteedihalduses

Identiteedihalduses refers to the historical context and institutional framework surrounding the Estonian identity and language policies within the country during the 20th century. Specifically, it relates to the period following the country's re-establishment of independence in 1918, when the country began to develop an ethnic nationalist ideology.

The emergence of the nationalist movement in Estonia led to a significant shift in the country's governance and cultural policies. Estonians placed a strong emphasis on maintaining their language and cultural heritage as a way to establish a distinct national identity. As a result, the government implemented policies aimed at suppressing the use of languages other than Estonian, particularly Russian.

From the 1920s to the 1940s, the Estonian government undertook measures to promote the widespread use of Estonian, including the creation of new bilingual education systems and language training programs. These efforts not only raised the country's literacy rates but also contributed to a linguistic shift among the population. By the 1930s, Estonian had become the primary language of communication in public life, schools, and government institutions.

The policy shift had a profound impact on the country's cultural landscape. Estonian literature began to flourish, and traditional folklore was revitalized as a source of national pride. However, it also led to tensions between Estonians and minority groups, such as Russians, whose ability to speak and use their native language in public life was gradually marginalized.

The policies regulating language and national identity continued after World War II, although the various measures have since been subject to critical reevaluation.