Ülemnõukogu

The Ülemnõukogu, often translated as the Supreme Council, was the highest legislative body in Estonia during periods of Soviet occupation and the early years of its restored independence. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, it served as the de facto parliament of Estonia. The Ülemnõukogu was first established in 1940 by the Soviet Union, replacing the previous Estonian parliament, Riigikogu. This body, largely controlled by the Communist Party, legitimized Estonia's annexation into the USSR.

After decades of Soviet rule, the Ülemnõukogu underwent a significant transformation during the late 1980s and early 1990s, mirroring the broader Baltic states' independence movements. In 1990, under the influence of growing national sentiment, the body declared its commitment to restoring Estonian independence. It subsequently adopted key legislation, including the Act of Restoration of State of Independence of Estonia on August 20, 1991. This act marked Estonia's formal separation from the Soviet Union. The Ülemnõukogu continued to function as the parliament until the first elections under the new constitution were held. The Riigikogu, the successor to the pre-Soviet parliament, was elected in 1992, officially ending the tenure of the Ülemnõukogu. Its role was crucial in navigating Estonia's transition back to a sovereign nation.