Lithuania: Following the Holocaust

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Located in the south, Lithuania is the largest of the Baltic states. Jews lived in Lithuania since the 14th century. Following the Non-Aggression Pact between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union, which was signed only a few days before the start of World War II in September 1939, Lithuania came under Soviet influence. On October 30 of the same year, Lithuania regained control over Vilnius, which was previously part of Poland. The Jewish population of Lithuania increased from 100,000 to 250,000 people after this. This number included approximately 15,000 Jewish refugees from Poland, which was occupied by the Nazi forces. The majority of the Lithuanian population was resentful of the pact with the Soviet Union, which they felt took away Lithuania's independence. This resentment was directed towards the Jews, expressed in their persecution and attempts on their property. On June 15, 1940, Soviet troops entered Lithuania; seven weeks later, Lithuania was officially annexed by the Soviet Union. The annexation of the country by the Soviet Union had a significant impact on the lives of Lithuanian Jews. On the one hand, Jewish representatives entered the government of the republic, and Jews were then free to study at higher educational institutions without restrictions. On the other hand, their businesses were nationalized, and many political, cultural, and charitable organizations were closed. On June 14, 1941, Soviet authorities expelled tens of thousands of Lithuanians, labeled as

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