25 Years of Soviet Latvia

Images published by the government to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the restoration of Soviet power in Latvia.
Young pioneers' camp, 1965. View Details.
25 Years of Soviet Latvia, Fung Library

In 1965, the USSR celebrated the 25th anniversary of the restoration of Soviet power in Latvia.

Kindergarten children look at turtles
Kindergarten children, 1965. View Details.
25 Years of Soviet Latvia, Fung Library

The date was marked by festivals, a commemorative stamp, a special meeting of the Latvian Communist Party’s central committee, and several other events and publications.

One such publication was this collection of photographs, "Padomju Latvijas 25. Gadadienai" or "25 Years of Soviet Latvia." Issued by the Latvian Society for Friendship and Cultural Ties with Foreign Countries, it was intended “to tell our friends abroad about Soviet Latvia.” (Explore the introductory booklet here.)

These 60 photographs depict various aspects of economic development and everyday life in the republic. Captions in the accompanying booklet emphasize the progress Latvia has made in manufacturing, education, public health, and other spheres since being annexed by the Soviet Union. 

Accessing These Materials

  • View collection details
  • Each digital image is accompanied by caption text in the original Russian and its English translation, searchable in HOLLIS and HOLLIS Images. 
  • The original photographs are available for in-library use. Please contact the Fung Library to request access.

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Svetlana Rukhelman