As you read, be sure to look at the map below.
The Baltic States are so-called because of their location on the Baltic Sea. This location has given the region a mild climate and access to the ocean. It also placed the region along major trade routes.
The Baltic States' location on land, however, has not always proved advantageous. At various times, the countries have suffered because of their location between powerful states, including Sweden, Austria, Germany, and Russia. For centuries, invading armies battled for control of the region. As a result, the Baltic States have been subject to frequent conquests.
The most recent foreign power to rule the Baltic States was the former Soviet Union. Soviet forces invaded and then annexed the three countries in 1939-1940, at the start of World War II.
