Person of the Decade

Jan 06, 2000

The 1990s arguably were the most important years for the Baltic
countries this century. Joseph Stalin and Adolph Hitler are two of
the most important figures for the Baltics this century, but they
brought the three countries down. People in Latvia, Lithuania and
Estonia in the last decade, whether politicians, artists or athletes,
have worked to bring the countries back to freedom and a seemingly
limitless future. In that regard, all are equally important. But The
Baltic Times wanted to know who stood out in people's minds, who
touched their heart.

Here are some of the answers we received:

Larisa Zemite, government worker - painter:

Dzemma Skulme. "She was actively involved in politics in the early
90s but she gave it up when she lost her trust in Latvia's
government. I feel the same."

Emils Bernhards, store manager: Two-time world champion sidecar racer
Kristers Sergis. "Twice in 10 years he has made Latvia's name well
known around the world."

There is a single prevailing opinion in Lithuania on the person of
the decade: Vytautas Landsbergis. He may be last in the popularity
polls, but he was the central figure in independent Lithuania's fight
against the USSR in 1990 and 1991. Being parliamentary chairman,
Landsbergis is still the most influential political figure in
Lithuania.

"Even opposition Labor Democratic MPs say they will build a monument
to Landsbergis after some decades," Lina Peceliuniene, political
observer, said on national radio.

"My family has traditional sympathies to the left, but anyway, I
would nominate Landsbergis for person of the decade. He kicked out
the Soviets," said Loreta Mercaityte, copy editor of the daily
Lietuvos aidas.

"Landsbergis was parliamentary chairman when Lithuania proclaimed
re-establishment of independence on March 11, 1990. I agree with his
political views, especially with his views on foreign policy," said
historian Arturas Dubonis.

The Baltic Times: "Who do you think has most affected, changed,
contributed to Estonian political, social, business or sporting life
in the past ten years?"

Toivo Klaar, diplomatic adviser to President Lennart Meri was taking
no chances:

"Although I am working for the president, I would still like to think
that I am being objective when I say that Lennart Meri is the person
who has most shaped Estonia's political image not only abroad, but
also at home. On the other hand, one could also mention Prime
Minister Mart Laar as the person who stood behind Estonia's rapid
economic transformation and laid the foundation for our present
success. Be it one or the other, but I think that these two
politicians have profoundly shaped Estonia and have made it into what
it is today."

Compiled by Brooke Donald, J. Michael Lyons and Rokas Tracevskis.

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