The year 1990 was a turning point in overcoming the communist legacy and shaping democracy in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe. In most of them, it brought the first completely free parliamentary, presidential and local government elections.
The year 1990 also marked the reunification of both German states. For the Baltic states, such as Lithuania - the first country in the region to declare its independence after 50 years of dependence on Soviet power - it was the beginning of a new era.
In the collective memory, the year 1990 is, however, marginalised and overshadowed by the year that precedes it. Because of the political breakthroughs and the symbolism surrounding them, the year 1989 became a highly significant border date.
However, if we assume that 1989 marks the moment of collapse of the communist regimes in Central and Eastern Europe, the year 1990 is the beginning of a completely new reality. It is the first year of deep transformations which do not compare to anything else in the past. The Europe that we know nowadays was being born in 1990. It is worth making sure that the memory of this important period is restored.
Here, you will find:
- information about the course of events in 1990 in selected European countries.
- educational materials, including scenarios of workshops and lessons.