tõkestuse

Tõkestuse is an Estonian term that translates to "resistance" in English. In the context of Estonian history, it often refers to the period of Soviet resistance and guerrilla warfare that followed World War II, known as the "Forest Brothers" movement. This period was marked by a struggle against the Soviet occupation of Estonia, which began in 1944.

After the war, many Estonians refused to accept Soviet rule and took to the forests to form resistance groups. These groups, known as the Forest Brothers, consisted of former soldiers, civilians, and others who opposed Soviet rule. They engaged in various forms of resistance, including sabotage, propaganda, and armed conflict with Soviet forces.

The Soviet authorities responded with harsh measures to suppress the resistance, including mass deportations, executions, and the establishment of collective farms. Despite these efforts, the Forest Brothers continued their struggle for several years. However, by the early 1950s, the Soviet Union had largely succeeded in crushing the resistance, and many of the Forest Brothers were either killed, captured, or forced to flee the country.

The term "Tõkestuse" is also used more generally to refer to any form of resistance or opposition to authority or oppression. In this broader sense, it can encompass a wide range of activities and movements, from peaceful protests to armed rebellion. The concept of resistance is a significant theme in Estonian history and culture, reflecting the country's long struggle for independence and self-determination.