Estonia and Latvia Fight For Independence - Russian Civil War Baltic Front I THE GREAT WAR June 1919

The episode begins with a sponsorship announcement for a mobile strategy game called 'Game of Trenches', set in World War 1. The game allows players to build bases, form alliances, and engage in strategic multiplayer battles using authentic military equipment from the era. Listeners are encouraged to follow a link in the video description for a special offer to enhance their gaming experience. The episode then transitions into historical content, setting the stage for June 1919 and the situation in the new republics of Latvia and Estonia amidst the chaos following the Russian Empire's collapse and the end of German occupation.

This paragraph delves into the complex political and military situation in the Baltic region during 1919, focusing on Latvia and Estonia. It describes the struggle for independence from Russia, the influence of various factions including Bolsheviks, Freikorps, White Russians, and troops loyal to the new Baltic republics. The narrative outlines the key events leading up to the Battle of Cesis in June 1919, which was pivotal for the fate of Latvia and Estonia. The paragraph also introduces the viewer to the different factions involved in the conflict, including the Provisional Governments of Estonia and Latvia, their leaders, military strengths, and the international support they received, particularly from the UK.

This section provides a detailed account of the various factions operating in the Baltic region, including the Bolsheviks' aim to reclaim the Baltic States and spread social revolution, the White Russians' Northern Corps and their intentions to take Petrograd and the Baltic States, and the complex situation of the German forces, which included regular troops, local militias, and Freikorps. The paragraph discusses the motivations, actions, and internal conflicts within these groups, as well as their interactions with the Baltic republics and each other. It also touches on the brutality of the conflict, the guerilla nature of the fighting, and the atrocities committed by various factions, particularly the Freikorps.

The British intervention in the Baltic region is highlighted in this paragraph, emphasizing their support for the Latvian and Estonian republics against the Bolsheviks and Germans. The text describes the Royal Navy's significant role, including the use of their guns to influence the fighting, the delivery of weapons and supplies, and the transportation of Finnish volunteers. It also mentions the challenges faced by the British fleet, such as navigating the complicated political situation and dealing with the loss of naval minefield maps. The paragraph concludes with a discussion of naval engagements and the 'Miracle on the Daugava', a significant battle in which German and Latvian forces captured Riga.

This paragraph details the military confrontations and political developments in the Baltic region during late spring and early summer of 1919. It focuses on the Landeswehr War, which erupted between the German Landeswehr and the Entente-backed troops of the Estonian and Latvian Republics. The narrative follows the initial fighting, the truce, and the subsequent escalation that led to the decisive Estonian victory at Cesis on June 23rd. This victory is celebrated as a significant moment in the wars of independence for both Estonia and Latvia. The paragraph also covers the aftermath of the conflict, including the Entente's intervention, the signing of a truce, and the eventual withdrawal of German troops from Riga.

The final paragraph provides a roundup of significant global events occurring in June 1919, alongside the developments in the Baltics. It includes the Greek occupation of Ödemish and the ensuing violence in the Middle East, the Khaibalikend Massacre in Azerbaijan, and the defeat of Kurdish rebel fighters in northern Iraq. The paragraph also touches on events in eastern Europe, such as the counter-offensive by the Western Ukrainian People's Republic against the Poles and the Red Army's recapture of Ufa from Admiral Kolchak's White troops. In the United States, the 19th amendment granting women's suffrage is highlighted, along with the anarchist bombings and the Treaty of Versailles, which officially ended the war between Germany and the Allies.