The Baltic Star
22.04.202510:34
Symbol used by the Algirdas Batallion of the Modern Lithuanian Armed Forces. "Algirdas Batallion" is written via Baltic runes, with the mark in the centre being derived from the signature stamp of Grand Duke Algirdas, symbolizing Lithuanian territory from West to East
The Baltic Star
The Baltic Star
12.04.202516:38
Short Introduction to The Baltic Sudovians (Yotvingians) - One of The Formational Groups of the Lithuanian nation.
The Lithuanian nation in its past, as mentioned in a previous post, was split into numerous distinct regions. The most famous being the Highlander Lithuanians and the Lowland Samogitians.
However, a certain group often goes overlooked - the Baltic Sudovians, or Yotvingians, who later formed the Suvalkian ethnic region.
Inhabiting southwest Lithuania and north-Eastern Poland, Sudovians were thought to be close relatives to the Prussians. Sudovians (and Gallindians) were also mentioned by Claudius Ptolemy in 2nd century AD, showing their long established presence in the area.
Their history, often overlooked, is no less interesting and rich. From fighting as mercenaries for the Kyivan Rus, to possible Viking links and common cause with Baltic Prussians during the Northern Crusades, the Sudovians represent another notable group which would form the greater Lithuanian nation.
The Baltic Star
The Lithuanian nation in its past, as mentioned in a previous post, was split into numerous distinct regions. The most famous being the Highlander Lithuanians and the Lowland Samogitians.
However, a certain group often goes overlooked - the Baltic Sudovians, or Yotvingians, who later formed the Suvalkian ethnic region.
Inhabiting southwest Lithuania and north-Eastern Poland, Sudovians were thought to be close relatives to the Prussians. Sudovians (and Gallindians) were also mentioned by Claudius Ptolemy in 2nd century AD, showing their long established presence in the area.
Their history, often overlooked, is no less interesting and rich. From fighting as mercenaries for the Kyivan Rus, to possible Viking links and common cause with Baltic Prussians during the Northern Crusades, the Sudovians represent another notable group which would form the greater Lithuanian nation.
The Baltic Star
09.04.202509:41
The Story of The Curonians - Baltic Ancestors of Modern Latvians who frightened even the Norse Vikings. [Part 1/2]
"God, save us from the plague, the fire and the Kurshi (Curonians)" - inscription on a Danish church, dated to the 11-12th centuries, warning against the Baltic Curonians.
As our timeline has reached the second millenium (1000 AD) I find it a fitting ocassion to begin to explore the history of other, lesser known Baltic peoples.
One such Baltic folk were the Curonians of North-West Latvia, who, in contrast to Prussians, were infamous ocean raiders, pirating shipping as far as the Danish isles and even making raids into Sweden itself, managing to strike at those who would stereotypically be doing the raiding - the Vikings, who knew them as the Kúrir.
Residing in the region of Latvia today known as Courland, as well as controlling territory as far as Northern Samogitia, the Curonians were known as a fierce warrior folk and the bane of many of their neighbors.
[Cont. in the following post]
"God, save us from the plague, the fire and the Kurshi (Curonians)" - inscription on a Danish church, dated to the 11-12th centuries, warning against the Baltic Curonians.
As our timeline has reached the second millenium (1000 AD) I find it a fitting ocassion to begin to explore the history of other, lesser known Baltic peoples.
One such Baltic folk were the Curonians of North-West Latvia, who, in contrast to Prussians, were infamous ocean raiders, pirating shipping as far as the Danish isles and even making raids into Sweden itself, managing to strike at those who would stereotypically be doing the raiding - the Vikings, who knew them as the Kúrir.
Residing in the region of Latvia today known as Courland, as well as controlling territory as far as Northern Samogitia, the Curonians were known as a fierce warrior folk and the bane of many of their neighbors.
[Cont. in the following post]
05.04.202509:49
A most unique, moral, courageous and noble culture, formented for millenia in the midst of the land of their forebearers, would end up being suppressed and ultimately replaced by foreign invaders. This was truly a loss not only for the Baltic people, but the entirety of Europe and the world in general.
The history of the Northern Crusades against the Baltic folk is most unique in the legendary heroism of our ancestors and poignant tragedy of the fallen. And yet, this is most overlooked and underaccented, even within this region.
An epic struggle with an odd ending where the invaders even took up the name of the vanquished. This was a complete departure from the typical trend of the conquered taking up the name of their conquerors (i.e Rus Vikings - > Russians, Germanic Franks - > French, Angles - > English). One can only wonder why Prussians were an exception to this rule.... It will be made readily apparent in chapter two.
The second chapter of the Story of Prūsija will be a detailed account of the events of the 12th-14th centuries, which were a testament to the bravery and martyrdom of this folk... and the beginning of their untimely demise as a distinct nation in one of the most forgotten atrocities in European history.
Future posts will also coincide with the Story of Lithuania and the rise of the Grand Duchy also featuring pieces exploring Estonian and Latvian resistence and fall to the encroaching invaders, detailing the forgotten Northern Crusades which were in reality one of the longest wars in human history, lasting all the way from 1147 to 1422.
The Baltic Star
The history of the Northern Crusades against the Baltic folk is most unique in the legendary heroism of our ancestors and poignant tragedy of the fallen. And yet, this is most overlooked and underaccented, even within this region.
An epic struggle with an odd ending where the invaders even took up the name of the vanquished. This was a complete departure from the typical trend of the conquered taking up the name of their conquerors (i.e Rus Vikings - > Russians, Germanic Franks - > French, Angles - > English). One can only wonder why Prussians were an exception to this rule.... It will be made readily apparent in chapter two.
The second chapter of the Story of Prūsija will be a detailed account of the events of the 12th-14th centuries, which were a testament to the bravery and martyrdom of this folk... and the beginning of their untimely demise as a distinct nation in one of the most forgotten atrocities in European history.
Future posts will also coincide with the Story of Lithuania and the rise of the Grand Duchy also featuring pieces exploring Estonian and Latvian resistence and fall to the encroaching invaders, detailing the forgotten Northern Crusades which were in reality one of the longest wars in human history, lasting all the way from 1147 to 1422.
The Baltic Star
29.03.202514:18
Baltic Fact of The Day
The geographical centre of Europe (or one of its proposed locations) is located near Vilnius, Lithuania at the village of Purnuškės, roughly 26 km North of the capital.
In 1989, French geographers, utilizing new continental borders, determined the new centre of Europe to be in Lithuania. In 2004 a special monument was placed on the site, marking the centre of Europe.
The Baltic Star
The geographical centre of Europe (or one of its proposed locations) is located near Vilnius, Lithuania at the village of Purnuškės, roughly 26 km North of the capital.
In 1989, French geographers, utilizing new continental borders, determined the new centre of Europe to be in Lithuania. In 2004 a special monument was placed on the site, marking the centre of Europe.
The Baltic Star
23.03.202510:46
Balt of The Day - Kazys Šimonis - Lithuanian fantasy painter
Kazys Šimonis was born in 1887 to a large Highlander Lithuanian family. He was a notable but overlooked Lithuanian artist and painter.
Growing up, he had a strong interest in history and ethnography, which had a strong influence on his art. He began learning arts from 1908, even continuing his studies in Kyiv and St. Petersburg during his time in the Russian Imperial army. He eventually became a professional painter and arts tutor in various schools across Lithuania whilst also improving his skills during his travels to Germany and France.
His most notable works began to emerge during the Soviet era in the 1950-1970s. The art of Šimonis combined a blend of modernism alongside various fantastical scenes, taking strong inspiration from the likes of M. K. Čiurlionis. Šimonis received state recognition from the government of the Lithuanian SSR being granted the title of LSSR People's Artist in 1972. His art is featured in the posts bellow.
Kazys Šimonis was born in 1887 to a large Highlander Lithuanian family. He was a notable but overlooked Lithuanian artist and painter.
Growing up, he had a strong interest in history and ethnography, which had a strong influence on his art. He began learning arts from 1908, even continuing his studies in Kyiv and St. Petersburg during his time in the Russian Imperial army. He eventually became a professional painter and arts tutor in various schools across Lithuania whilst also improving his skills during his travels to Germany and France.
His most notable works began to emerge during the Soviet era in the 1950-1970s. The art of Šimonis combined a blend of modernism alongside various fantastical scenes, taking strong inspiration from the likes of M. K. Čiurlionis. Šimonis received state recognition from the government of the Lithuanian SSR being granted the title of LSSR People's Artist in 1972. His art is featured in the posts bellow.
15.04.202508:00
11.04.202513:40
The Story of Lithuania Chapter One Part One [1.1] - Kyivan Rus invasions and Baltic Retaliation (1000-1200 AD)
The formation of the foundations of the unified Lithuanian nation and state had begun in the period of the 11th and 12th centuries. Up until then, Lithuania had been fractured into numerous regions (mainly Highlanders, Samogitians and Sudovians) as well as small Duchies controlled by dukes (Kunigaiksčiai), sometimes fighting internal conflicts with other Balts, but living a mostly sedentary, isolated existence.
However, this would change as the rising Slavic power of the Kyivan Rus would begin encroaching on Baltic territory, conducting raids and extorting tribute from Lithuanian lands. This was a wake up call for the Lithuanian folk as their peaceful existence and freedom was endangered by foreign invasion.
Uniting in the face of the Rus threat, Lithuanians would begin their first expeditions and raids into Kyivan Rus territory as well as Estonia. 12th century Russian sources start mentioning Lithuanian raids, which managed to plunder and capture numerous lands in modern day Belarus as well as Western Russia. Even Northern Ukraine was subject to Lithuanian attack as evidenced by the peace treaty signed between Lithuanian Dukes and Galicia-Volhyn on 1219.
Lithuanian expansionist ambitions would peak during the Mongol invasions, which shattered the Kyivan Rus and left much of Russia vulnerable and divided. Thus, the tables were turned against the Kyivan Rus and the conditions for the emergence of the future Grand Duchy of Lithuania were set.
However, this will still have to wait as Lithuanians, though bound by alliances against foreign foes were still not wholly united. A strong hand was needed to prepare the nation for further conquests, this process being spurred by the German invasions of the Teutonic Order and Order of the Brothers of The Sword in the 1200s. Thus, later would emerge the figure of Mindaugas, the future King of Lithuania and unifier of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.
The Baltic Star
The formation of the foundations of the unified Lithuanian nation and state had begun in the period of the 11th and 12th centuries. Up until then, Lithuania had been fractured into numerous regions (mainly Highlanders, Samogitians and Sudovians) as well as small Duchies controlled by dukes (Kunigaiksčiai), sometimes fighting internal conflicts with other Balts, but living a mostly sedentary, isolated existence.
However, this would change as the rising Slavic power of the Kyivan Rus would begin encroaching on Baltic territory, conducting raids and extorting tribute from Lithuanian lands. This was a wake up call for the Lithuanian folk as their peaceful existence and freedom was endangered by foreign invasion.
Uniting in the face of the Rus threat, Lithuanians would begin their first expeditions and raids into Kyivan Rus territory as well as Estonia. 12th century Russian sources start mentioning Lithuanian raids, which managed to plunder and capture numerous lands in modern day Belarus as well as Western Russia. Even Northern Ukraine was subject to Lithuanian attack as evidenced by the peace treaty signed between Lithuanian Dukes and Galicia-Volhyn on 1219.
Lithuanian expansionist ambitions would peak during the Mongol invasions, which shattered the Kyivan Rus and left much of Russia vulnerable and divided. Thus, the tables were turned against the Kyivan Rus and the conditions for the emergence of the future Grand Duchy of Lithuania were set.
However, this will still have to wait as Lithuanians, though bound by alliances against foreign foes were still not wholly united. A strong hand was needed to prepare the nation for further conquests, this process being spurred by the German invasions of the Teutonic Order and Order of the Brothers of The Sword in the 1200s. Thus, later would emerge the figure of Mindaugas, the future King of Lithuania and unifier of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.
The Baltic Star
08.04.202508:30
Balt of The Day - far-Eastern explorer and Ainu ethnologist Bronislaw Pilsudski.
Bronislaw was the less known brother of Iosef Pilsudski, who would become the Marshal of Poland. However, his life was no less extraordinary.
Born on 1866 to the noble Pilsudski family, Bronislaw considered himself a descendant of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, identifying as Polish, Lithuanian and Samogitian. His early life was marked by anti-tsarist activities alongside his brother Iosef Pilsudski.
In 1887, his life would take a drastic turn after being caught in a plot to assasinate tsar Alexander III. Exiled to Sakhalin, he would study the native populations there. His studies later extended to the Ainu, recording their language via audio, dictionary and preserving Ainu mythology and culture. His work has been considered to have been vital for the preservation of the Ainu folk, who were on the verge of assimilation. He later returned to Europe, but died under mysterious circumstances in Switzerland.
The Baltic Star
Bronislaw was the less known brother of Iosef Pilsudski, who would become the Marshal of Poland. However, his life was no less extraordinary.
Born on 1866 to the noble Pilsudski family, Bronislaw considered himself a descendant of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, identifying as Polish, Lithuanian and Samogitian. His early life was marked by anti-tsarist activities alongside his brother Iosef Pilsudski.
In 1887, his life would take a drastic turn after being caught in a plot to assasinate tsar Alexander III. Exiled to Sakhalin, he would study the native populations there. His studies later extended to the Ainu, recording their language via audio, dictionary and preserving Ainu mythology and culture. His work has been considered to have been vital for the preservation of the Ainu folk, who were on the verge of assimilation. He later returned to Europe, but died under mysterious circumstances in Switzerland.
The Baltic Star
05.04.202509:49
The Story of Prūsija Chapter One [1] - Conclusion
This post is meant as a commentary upon the first Chapter of the story of Baltic Prussia and a small sneak peek to chapter two.
Having examined the origins and long established presence and history of the Baltic Prussians, one can conclude that they were an extraordinary people. A most noble folk - tolerant and peaceful to foreign neighbors, as well as fiercely independent, Prussians had developed their own clearly distinct, though still disunited identity. Their fame stretched even as far as the Ancient World of Greece and Rome.
Their more than 1500 year long history on the Baltic Birthland is a rare example of a folk so attached and bonded to its soil. Another great contrast to the migrating and invading populations of other nations. This is another factor which makes their ultimate fate so much more tragic.
[Cont.]
This post is meant as a commentary upon the first Chapter of the story of Baltic Prussia and a small sneak peek to chapter two.
Having examined the origins and long established presence and history of the Baltic Prussians, one can conclude that they were an extraordinary people. A most noble folk - tolerant and peaceful to foreign neighbors, as well as fiercely independent, Prussians had developed their own clearly distinct, though still disunited identity. Their fame stretched even as far as the Ancient World of Greece and Rome.
Their more than 1500 year long history on the Baltic Birthland is a rare example of a folk so attached and bonded to its soil. Another great contrast to the migrating and invading populations of other nations. This is another factor which makes their ultimate fate so much more tragic.
[Cont.]
27.03.202518:21
The Baltic Star is proud to announce its expansion to Twitter. Consider a follow. Content will be of more commentary or humorous nature and not necessarily reposts of the Telegram channel.
https://x.com/TheBalticStar?t=gvPylsAlI7ezhdMybnd5Tg&s=09
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22.03.202519:04
The Story of Prūsija (1.4) Chapter One Part Four - Contacts With Foreigners and The Beginnings of Strife. (300-1000AD)
The Baltic Prussians, in spite of their mostly peaceful and queit existence would have numerous encounters and contact with neighboring nations throughout the centuries, some of them hostile.
The Great Migration Period
From the 4th century AD Prussia was already experiencing invasions from Germanic Goths and Turkic Avars, which they had succesfuly resisted. The Germanic Gothic chapter is interesting for its deeper implications, some theorizing that beforehand the Baltic Prussian people might have lived as far as Pomerania. At the same time, genetic traffic indicates left over Iron Age Baltic ancestry in Scandinavia, hinting at possible greater links in the past with the ancestors of the Norse area.
Turkic Avars have been said to have made incursions into Baltic Prussia and the greater Birthland itself. However, these invaders too had been pushed out with few if any sources and archeological findings indicating their prolonged presence.
Contacts with Vikings
During the Viking Age in the 8th-11th centuries, Prussia, due to its substantial coastline, would be subject to Viking raids and invasions. These Norse visitors were eager to experience the famed Baltic hospitality. They managed to assemble strongholds on the Prussian coastline, one of which being Truso, a town that became notable for its role in the Amber Road. However, their presence would not long be tolerated and these visitors were forced to depart, though not before leaving a Nordic imprint on the local area of Pogesania and Salmland. They also spread some devastation in the process such as the burning of Kaup, another Prussian coastal town. Norse tombs and gravesites had been discovered at the area of Kaup by German archeologists in the 19th century. However, today these sites suffer vandalism and damage from Russian amateur archeologists.
Contacts with Slavs and Poland
Baltic Prussians have had numerous encounters with their Polish and Ruthenian Slavic neighbors. Before the 10th century, relations between Prussians and Poles were rather amicable. As mentioned in part one, extensive trade links existed between the peoples. Contact was so extensive to the point that some 10% of the Old Prussian language is said to have been made up of loanwords from Polish, according to the analysis of Polish linguist and archeologist Łucja Okulicz-Kozaryn. However, these peaceful relations would not last long as Poland would acquire new territorial ambitions following christianisation in the 10th century.
The Baltic Star
The Baltic Prussians, in spite of their mostly peaceful and queit existence would have numerous encounters and contact with neighboring nations throughout the centuries, some of them hostile.
The Great Migration Period
From the 4th century AD Prussia was already experiencing invasions from Germanic Goths and Turkic Avars, which they had succesfuly resisted. The Germanic Gothic chapter is interesting for its deeper implications, some theorizing that beforehand the Baltic Prussian people might have lived as far as Pomerania. At the same time, genetic traffic indicates left over Iron Age Baltic ancestry in Scandinavia, hinting at possible greater links in the past with the ancestors of the Norse area.
Turkic Avars have been said to have made incursions into Baltic Prussia and the greater Birthland itself. However, these invaders too had been pushed out with few if any sources and archeological findings indicating their prolonged presence.
Contacts with Vikings
During the Viking Age in the 8th-11th centuries, Prussia, due to its substantial coastline, would be subject to Viking raids and invasions. These Norse visitors were eager to experience the famed Baltic hospitality. They managed to assemble strongholds on the Prussian coastline, one of which being Truso, a town that became notable for its role in the Amber Road. However, their presence would not long be tolerated and these visitors were forced to depart, though not before leaving a Nordic imprint on the local area of Pogesania and Salmland. They also spread some devastation in the process such as the burning of Kaup, another Prussian coastal town. Norse tombs and gravesites had been discovered at the area of Kaup by German archeologists in the 19th century. However, today these sites suffer vandalism and damage from Russian amateur archeologists.
Contacts with Slavs and Poland
Baltic Prussians have had numerous encounters with their Polish and Ruthenian Slavic neighbors. Before the 10th century, relations between Prussians and Poles were rather amicable. As mentioned in part one, extensive trade links existed between the peoples. Contact was so extensive to the point that some 10% of the Old Prussian language is said to have been made up of loanwords from Polish, according to the analysis of Polish linguist and archeologist Łucja Okulicz-Kozaryn. However, these peaceful relations would not last long as Poland would acquire new territorial ambitions following christianisation in the 10th century.
The Baltic Star
15.04.202508:00
Balt of The Day - Lithuanian Historical Artist Artūras Slapšys
Born in Kaunas, 1962, Slapšys painted from an early age, which would become his lifes passion.
Beginning work in the USA, his topics have included historical figures, battles and landscapes. Throughout his career he has built a wide reaching reputation as a historical artist.
His art is displayed in many institutional collections across the USA, Canada, Iceland, UK, Lithuania, Ukraine and other nations. Slapšys had also been the victor of numerous postage stamp design competitions, alongside being recognized as the author of some of the best representations of Vikings in art by the Norwegian Viking Museum "Lofotr". His work has also garnered him fame in Lithuania.
In 2015, Artūras was awarded the "Krystal of Kindness" for preserving historical memory and supporting the people of Ukraine. 16 of his portraits also adorn the Exploration Museum of Iceland as permanent pieces of its collection of Viking depictions. [Art Below]
The Baltic Star
Born in Kaunas, 1962, Slapšys painted from an early age, which would become his lifes passion.
Beginning work in the USA, his topics have included historical figures, battles and landscapes. Throughout his career he has built a wide reaching reputation as a historical artist.
His art is displayed in many institutional collections across the USA, Canada, Iceland, UK, Lithuania, Ukraine and other nations. Slapšys had also been the victor of numerous postage stamp design competitions, alongside being recognized as the author of some of the best representations of Vikings in art by the Norwegian Viking Museum "Lofotr". His work has also garnered him fame in Lithuania.
In 2015, Artūras was awarded the "Krystal of Kindness" for preserving historical memory and supporting the people of Ukraine. 16 of his portraits also adorn the Exploration Museum of Iceland as permanent pieces of its collection of Viking depictions. [Art Below]
The Baltic Star
10.04.202516:47
Baltic Fact of The Day
World famous author of the epic fantasy series "Lord of The Rings" J. R. R. Tolkien's male ancestry line can be traced back to (occupied) Baltic Prussia.
His earliest known paternal ancestor Michel Tolkien was born around 1620 in Kreuzburg, Sambian Peninsula, Northern Prussia - where most of the Prussians were deported to during the crusades. Therefore, it is possible, and theorized by some, that Tolkien might have had distant Baltic roots from Germanized Baltic Prussians.
The Baltic Star
World famous author of the epic fantasy series "Lord of The Rings" J. R. R. Tolkien's male ancestry line can be traced back to (occupied) Baltic Prussia.
His earliest known paternal ancestor Michel Tolkien was born around 1620 in Kreuzburg, Sambian Peninsula, Northern Prussia - where most of the Prussians were deported to during the crusades. Therefore, it is possible, and theorized by some, that Tolkien might have had distant Baltic roots from Germanized Baltic Prussians.
The Baltic Star
07.04.202515:53
The Story of Lithuania - Prelude - First mention of Lithuania in Written Sources (1009AD)
As a prelude to the story of Lithuania I find no other historical chapter more fitting than the first written mention of our country.
The first mention of the name Lithuania was found to be in the Quedlinburg Chronicle, dated March 9th, 1009.
The chronicle shortly notes the death of a Christian missionary Saint Bruno on the border with a land referred to as Lithuania. However, far fewer know of the legend behind his death.
The story of St. Bruno begins with his arrival in Lithuania. There he attempted to convert a local tribe to christianity. The leader of the tribe demanded proof of the powers of his God - to walk through flames unscathed.
Bruno would accept this challenge and to everyones surprise he did indeed walk through the flames unscathed. The leader of the tribe then quickly accepted baptism under the Christian faith.
However, his son had secretly followed Bruno before the trial and had witnessed that he had doused his clothing in water to protect himself from the flames. When he told his father, Bruno was quickly cut down for this act of deception.
Thus emerged the first mention of the name Lithuania and the beginning of a legendary story.
The Baltic Star
As a prelude to the story of Lithuania I find no other historical chapter more fitting than the first written mention of our country.
The first mention of the name Lithuania was found to be in the Quedlinburg Chronicle, dated March 9th, 1009.
The chronicle shortly notes the death of a Christian missionary Saint Bruno on the border with a land referred to as Lithuania. However, far fewer know of the legend behind his death.
The story of St. Bruno begins with his arrival in Lithuania. There he attempted to convert a local tribe to christianity. The leader of the tribe demanded proof of the powers of his God - to walk through flames unscathed.
Bruno would accept this challenge and to everyones surprise he did indeed walk through the flames unscathed. The leader of the tribe then quickly accepted baptism under the Christian faith.
However, his son had secretly followed Bruno before the trial and had witnessed that he had doused his clothing in water to protect himself from the flames. When he told his father, Bruno was quickly cut down for this act of deception.
Thus emerged the first mention of the name Lithuania and the beginning of a legendary story.
The Baltic Star
04.04.202505:49
Thank you for 200 subscribers!
Within the past few months this channel has received significant interest despite the sporadic nature of its activity. Almost two thirds of the current followers of this channel joined in the past three months alone, showing strong growth.
The Baltic Star is very much happy to see that Baltic legacy and history attracts such attention, even from outsiders across the world.
I would like to take the opportunity to encourage the followers and sympathisers of The Baltic Star to help spread the message and share this channel to others you'd deem interested in Baltic history and culture. Also consider following the Twitter page for supplementary content.
Invite link: https://t.me/TheBalticStar
Within the past few months this channel has received significant interest despite the sporadic nature of its activity. Almost two thirds of the current followers of this channel joined in the past three months alone, showing strong growth.
The Baltic Star is very much happy to see that Baltic legacy and history attracts such attention, even from outsiders across the world.
I would like to take the opportunity to encourage the followers and sympathisers of The Baltic Star to help spread the message and share this channel to others you'd deem interested in Baltic history and culture. Also consider following the Twitter page for supplementary content.
Invite link: https://t.me/TheBalticStar
26.03.202517:03
Bonus Post - Baltic Prussian and Lithuanian links to the Ostrogoths via Amber Trade
"It is gratifying to us to know that you have heard of our fame, and have sent ambassadors who have passed through so many strange nations to seek our friendship. We have received the amber which you have sent us. You say that you gather this lightest of all substances from the shores of ocean, but how it comes thither you know not. But as an author named Cornelius (Tacitus) informs us, it is gathered in the innermost islands of the ocean, being formed originally of the juice of a tree (whence its name succinum), and gradually hardened by the heat of the sun. Thus it becomes an exuded metal, a transparent softness, sometimes blushing with the color of saffron, sometimes glowing with flame-like clearness. Then, gliding down to the margin of sea, and further purified by the rolling of the tides, it is at length transported to your shores to be cast upon them. We have thought it better to point this out to you, lest you should imagine that your supposed secrets have escaped our knowledge. We sent you some presents by our ambassadors, and shall be glad to receive further visits from you by the road which you have thus opened up, and to show you future favors."
Letter written on behalf of Theodoric the Great, king of the Ostrogoths, to the Balts, thanking them for amber deliveries and promising future friendship, 537 AD.
The Baltic Star
"It is gratifying to us to know that you have heard of our fame, and have sent ambassadors who have passed through so many strange nations to seek our friendship. We have received the amber which you have sent us. You say that you gather this lightest of all substances from the shores of ocean, but how it comes thither you know not. But as an author named Cornelius (Tacitus) informs us, it is gathered in the innermost islands of the ocean, being formed originally of the juice of a tree (whence its name succinum), and gradually hardened by the heat of the sun. Thus it becomes an exuded metal, a transparent softness, sometimes blushing with the color of saffron, sometimes glowing with flame-like clearness. Then, gliding down to the margin of sea, and further purified by the rolling of the tides, it is at length transported to your shores to be cast upon them. We have thought it better to point this out to you, lest you should imagine that your supposed secrets have escaped our knowledge. We sent you some presents by our ambassadors, and shall be glad to receive further visits from you by the road which you have thus opened up, and to show you future favors."
Letter written on behalf of Theodoric the Great, king of the Ostrogoths, to the Balts, thanking them for amber deliveries and promising future friendship, 537 AD.
The Baltic Star
19.03.202518:50
Lithuanian proverbs (patarlės) - samples of Lithuanian folk wisdom.
Wanted to do something a bit different today. Thus, I have decided to gather a few Lithuanian folk proverbs for a dose of wisdom from our nations rich repository of oral memory. Enjoy.
"All children are of one mother, but not all are of the same wisdom."
"One friend is a blessing. Many friends are your doom."
"Wine and women should not catch a wise one off guard."
"When in trouble, the smart one blames himself - the idiot - others."
"Wealth is the servant of the wise one, but the master of the fool."
"The stupid one is wise as long as he is silent."
"Better a wisemans scolding than a fools praise."
"If a bee could not sting, they would have no honey."
"If you are a Lithuanian, why do you warm yourself by a Polish bottom?"
"When one speaks to the intelligent - he gains intelligence. When one speaks to the unintelligent - he loses intelligence."
"The stupid one talks loudly - the wise controls his tongue."
"An astute person sees far more just outside his window than an idiot who has travelled the entire world."
"An idiot wanting to appear intelligent makes an even bigger idiot out of himself."
"Wise is the one who speaks little."
"The water laughs: that one thinks he knows how to swim."
"A man must be like gold, not like a straw blown around by the wind."
"To appear unwise is sometimes the greatest wisdom and cleverness."
"You will not go far being reliant on a strangers mind."
"The one who is smart always thinks that there are those smarter than him. The one who is stupid believes there are those dumber than him."
"When ale enters the stomach - the mind dissapears."
"Better a wise one that scolds you then a fool who catches you off guard."
"One is a true warrior when he can make an enemy a friend."
The Baltic Star
Wanted to do something a bit different today. Thus, I have decided to gather a few Lithuanian folk proverbs for a dose of wisdom from our nations rich repository of oral memory. Enjoy.
"All children are of one mother, but not all are of the same wisdom."
"One friend is a blessing. Many friends are your doom."
"Wine and women should not catch a wise one off guard."
"When in trouble, the smart one blames himself - the idiot - others."
"Wealth is the servant of the wise one, but the master of the fool."
"The stupid one is wise as long as he is silent."
"Better a wisemans scolding than a fools praise."
"If a bee could not sting, they would have no honey."
"If you are a Lithuanian, why do you warm yourself by a Polish bottom?"
"When one speaks to the intelligent - he gains intelligence. When one speaks to the unintelligent - he loses intelligence."
"The stupid one talks loudly - the wise controls his tongue."
"An astute person sees far more just outside his window than an idiot who has travelled the entire world."
"An idiot wanting to appear intelligent makes an even bigger idiot out of himself."
"Wise is the one who speaks little."
"The water laughs: that one thinks he knows how to swim."
"A man must be like gold, not like a straw blown around by the wind."
"To appear unwise is sometimes the greatest wisdom and cleverness."
"You will not go far being reliant on a strangers mind."
"The one who is smart always thinks that there are those smarter than him. The one who is stupid believes there are those dumber than him."
"When ale enters the stomach - the mind dissapears."
"Better a wise one that scolds you then a fool who catches you off guard."
"One is a true warrior when he can make an enemy a friend."
The Baltic Star
14.04.202508:00
Friends Of The Baltic Star - Interesting Lithuanian, Latvian and Belarusian Groups to Investigate
To foster further cooperation between groups detailing Baltic history I have compiled a list of other Telegram channels of similar nature. They also host information that has not been posted on The Baltic Star which I personally find worthwhile. Disclaimer: The Baltic Star may not agree with everything stated in these channels.
Lithuanian Channels:
Lietuvos Monarchistai - as the name would suggest, it is a channel of Lithuanian monarchists. Its primary posts include the history of notable descendants of noble Lithuanian families, such as the Radziwill and others as well as pieces about Lithuanian historical figures.
Mažosios Lietuvos Tradicionalistai - a sattelite channel of the monarchists focused on the history of Lithuania Minor (Lithuanian Prussia)
PERKŪNO KARIAI - Lithuanian nationalist channel focused on various historical posts and Lithuanian news updates.
Geležinio Vilko Judėjimas - a Lithuanian nationalist channel posting various patriotic content pieces.
Lithuania's School of Thought - interesting small channel focused on philosophy and quotes of Lithuanian thinkers as well as art and historical images.
Mažoji Lietuva/Lietuva - small channel dedicated to Baltic Prussia and Lithuania minor.
Tėvūnija 🇱🇹 Fatherland - a nationalist Lithuanian channel dedicated to Lithuanian interwar, WW2 and Forest Brother history. Notable for its posts featuring stories of German fighters in the Forest Brothers and Lithuanians in Germany during the Third Reich period.
Latvian channels:
~Ciprians Magnuss~ - Latvian nationalist channel posting WW2 content and other pieces focusing on National Socialist ideology.
Aistija - a pan-Baltic nationalist group promoting the idea of an unitary Lithuanian-Latvian state. Features posts on Baltic history and nationalism.
Ansis Takes - meme channel ran by a Latvian focused on humorous content and memes of Baltic history.
Latvijas vēsture - channel dedicated to Latvian history.
Belarusian Channels:
KRYVIS - A fascinating Belarusian channel promoting the Baltic and Balto-Slavic roots of the people of Belarus and propagating a Baltic identity for Belarusians.
To foster further cooperation between groups detailing Baltic history I have compiled a list of other Telegram channels of similar nature. They also host information that has not been posted on The Baltic Star which I personally find worthwhile. Disclaimer: The Baltic Star may not agree with everything stated in these channels.
Lithuanian Channels:
Lietuvos Monarchistai - as the name would suggest, it is a channel of Lithuanian monarchists. Its primary posts include the history of notable descendants of noble Lithuanian families, such as the Radziwill and others as well as pieces about Lithuanian historical figures.
Mažosios Lietuvos Tradicionalistai - a sattelite channel of the monarchists focused on the history of Lithuania Minor (Lithuanian Prussia)
PERKŪNO KARIAI - Lithuanian nationalist channel focused on various historical posts and Lithuanian news updates.
Geležinio Vilko Judėjimas - a Lithuanian nationalist channel posting various patriotic content pieces.
Lithuania's School of Thought - interesting small channel focused on philosophy and quotes of Lithuanian thinkers as well as art and historical images.
Mažoji Lietuva/Lietuva - small channel dedicated to Baltic Prussia and Lithuania minor.
Tėvūnija 🇱🇹 Fatherland - a nationalist Lithuanian channel dedicated to Lithuanian interwar, WW2 and Forest Brother history. Notable for its posts featuring stories of German fighters in the Forest Brothers and Lithuanians in Germany during the Third Reich period.
Latvian channels:
~Ciprians Magnuss~ - Latvian nationalist channel posting WW2 content and other pieces focusing on National Socialist ideology.
Aistija - a pan-Baltic nationalist group promoting the idea of an unitary Lithuanian-Latvian state. Features posts on Baltic history and nationalism.
Ansis Takes - meme channel ran by a Latvian focused on humorous content and memes of Baltic history.
Latvijas vēsture - channel dedicated to Latvian history.
Belarusian Channels:
KRYVIS - A fascinating Belarusian channel promoting the Baltic and Balto-Slavic roots of the people of Belarus and propagating a Baltic identity for Belarusians.
09.04.202509:41
Curonians have been mentioned in numerous Viking sagas as participants in numerous battles on Swedish soil, including the legendary battle of Brávellir on the side of the Swedish against the Danes. Sometimes Curonians would even make alliances with Icelandic and Swedish Vikings, however, they would most often collaborate with another nearby raider folk - the Oesellians of Estonian Saaremaa in raids against them.
Curonians had also been theorized to have taken part in the Pillage of Sigtuna (1187) near modern Stockholm, which was one of the most important cities of Sweden at the time.
Sources also mention Curonian settlements to have existed in Danish Bornholm, Swedish Gotland and even Eastern Sweden itself, showing the far reaching and powerful influence of Baltic Curonians. One could argue this tradition of Curonian colonisation would be continued by the German-led Duchy of Courland in the 1600s, with the Duchy establishing its own colonial settlements in the Caribbean and West Africa, becoming one of the fastest growing states of its time despite its small size.
However, battles also took place in the 9th century on Curonian soil. The Swedes managed to defeat the Curonians in Grobina and Apuolė, extorting tribute from the locals. However, their long term presence was unsustainable and they had to abandon their settlements in Curonia. Numerous Viking graves and mounds have also been excavated in the area of Grobina, showing extensive contact between Balts and Norse.
Curonians might have also had closer ties to the Baltic Prussians, given their relatively close proximity as well as curious cases of Prussian surnames amongst Latvians (i.e Prūsis) and similarities with the Baltic Prussian language present in surviving Curonian records.
The Baltic Star
Curonians had also been theorized to have taken part in the Pillage of Sigtuna (1187) near modern Stockholm, which was one of the most important cities of Sweden at the time.
Sources also mention Curonian settlements to have existed in Danish Bornholm, Swedish Gotland and even Eastern Sweden itself, showing the far reaching and powerful influence of Baltic Curonians. One could argue this tradition of Curonian colonisation would be continued by the German-led Duchy of Courland in the 1600s, with the Duchy establishing its own colonial settlements in the Caribbean and West Africa, becoming one of the fastest growing states of its time despite its small size.
However, battles also took place in the 9th century on Curonian soil. The Swedes managed to defeat the Curonians in Grobina and Apuolė, extorting tribute from the locals. However, their long term presence was unsustainable and they had to abandon their settlements in Curonia. Numerous Viking graves and mounds have also been excavated in the area of Grobina, showing extensive contact between Balts and Norse.
Curonians might have also had closer ties to the Baltic Prussians, given their relatively close proximity as well as curious cases of Prussian surnames amongst Latvians (i.e Prūsis) and similarities with the Baltic Prussian language present in surviving Curonian records.
The Baltic Star
06.04.202512:27
Baltic Fact of The Day
In the iconic video game Skyrim, one of the members of the Companions, a warrior guild, is named Vilkas. He is most notable for being a Nord Werewolf.
The word "Vilkas" is in fact Lithuanian and actually is the word for "Wolf" in our language. This is a neat foreshadowing snuck in by the developers and a subtle tribute to Baltic culture.
The Baltic Star
In the iconic video game Skyrim, one of the members of the Companions, a warrior guild, is named Vilkas. He is most notable for being a Nord Werewolf.
The word "Vilkas" is in fact Lithuanian and actually is the word for "Wolf" in our language. This is a neat foreshadowing snuck in by the developers and a subtle tribute to Baltic culture.
The Baltic Star
03.04.202508:13
Alleged Prussian war flag featuring the three main Prussian Gods - Peckols, Perkūnas and Patrimpas alongside strange writings, thought to be from a Prussian writing system, reproduced by Simon Grunau
The Baltic Star
The Baltic Star
23.03.202510:46
Landscapes and other scenes by Kazys Šimonis
The Baltic Star
The Baltic Star
12.03.202518:32
The Story of Prūsija (1.3) chapter one part three - descriptions of Baltic Prussians (and Lithuanians) by foreigners. A glimpse into Baltic character.
"The Sambians (Northern Prussians) tolerate no masters." - King Sveyn II of Denmark, 1070s, describing the Prussians after they succesfuly resisted Danish Viking occupation.
"They are a very humane people who extend a hand of aid to those who are shipwrecked or hounded by pirates. They do not value silver or gold. In general one can say much praise to the customs of their folk if only they had been christian. They do not reject christians, however, they also do not let them close to sacred groves." - Adam Bremensis, XII century German archivist and chronicler speaking about the Prussian folk.
"From all corners of the world people arrive there (Prussia) to hear divinations of oracles, especially barbarians and Greeks." - 1st century Roman author Gaius Plinius describing the prominent and far-reaching reputation of the Baltic Prussians as priests and divinators.
"They (Prussians) are the most humane people (homines humanissimi)." - Helmold of Bosau, 12th century Saxon Historian in his work "Chronic Slavorum" describing the Baltic neighbors of the Wendic West Slavs.
"Throughout history the Aesti (Balts) were praised on many ocassions for their peaceful way of life. This was also done by the Gothic East Roman historian Jordanes, who also said that the Aesti were a very peaceful people. The same opinion is expressed by various chroniclers until the middle of the 12th century." - Vydūnas, "700 years of German-Lithuanian Relations" - The Ancient Baltic Land as an Island of Culture.
"From the beginning the Prussians showed great tolerance. Hardly would any christian papacy or government at that time have allowed an idol worshipper (pagan), at the start only warned, or without warning, to wander afar in their lands." - Dr. William Pierson, 20th century German historian, in his work "Elektron" about the exceptional tolerance of the Prussians.
"The Goths called the folk of our Birthland the 'aisten' (dr. W. Gaerte). This name apparently hailed from the Gothic word 'aistan' - "to fear, to reckon with, to be aware of." - Vydūnas, "700 Years of German-Lithuanian Relations".
"They were of bright blue eyes, reddish tanned skin and lush hair and, aside from that, living amongst impassable swamps, they do not wish to bear any master above them." - Adam Bremensis describing the appearence and fiercely independent character of Baltic Prussians.
The Baltic Star
"The Sambians (Northern Prussians) tolerate no masters." - King Sveyn II of Denmark, 1070s, describing the Prussians after they succesfuly resisted Danish Viking occupation.
"They are a very humane people who extend a hand of aid to those who are shipwrecked or hounded by pirates. They do not value silver or gold. In general one can say much praise to the customs of their folk if only they had been christian. They do not reject christians, however, they also do not let them close to sacred groves." - Adam Bremensis, XII century German archivist and chronicler speaking about the Prussian folk.
"From all corners of the world people arrive there (Prussia) to hear divinations of oracles, especially barbarians and Greeks." - 1st century Roman author Gaius Plinius describing the prominent and far-reaching reputation of the Baltic Prussians as priests and divinators.
"They (Prussians) are the most humane people (homines humanissimi)." - Helmold of Bosau, 12th century Saxon Historian in his work "Chronic Slavorum" describing the Baltic neighbors of the Wendic West Slavs.
"Throughout history the Aesti (Balts) were praised on many ocassions for their peaceful way of life. This was also done by the Gothic East Roman historian Jordanes, who also said that the Aesti were a very peaceful people. The same opinion is expressed by various chroniclers until the middle of the 12th century." - Vydūnas, "700 years of German-Lithuanian Relations" - The Ancient Baltic Land as an Island of Culture.
"From the beginning the Prussians showed great tolerance. Hardly would any christian papacy or government at that time have allowed an idol worshipper (pagan), at the start only warned, or without warning, to wander afar in their lands." - Dr. William Pierson, 20th century German historian, in his work "Elektron" about the exceptional tolerance of the Prussians.
"The Goths called the folk of our Birthland the 'aisten' (dr. W. Gaerte). This name apparently hailed from the Gothic word 'aistan' - "to fear, to reckon with, to be aware of." - Vydūnas, "700 Years of German-Lithuanian Relations".
"They were of bright blue eyes, reddish tanned skin and lush hair and, aside from that, living amongst impassable swamps, they do not wish to bear any master above them." - Adam Bremensis describing the appearence and fiercely independent character of Baltic Prussians.
The Baltic Star
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