Emblem of the Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic

Emblem of the Latvian SSR

The Emblem of the Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic was the official state emblem of the Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic (Latvian SSR), a constituent republic of the Soviet Union. The emblem was adopted in 1940, following the incorporation of Latvia into the Soviet Union, and was used until Latvia regained its independence in 1990.

Design

The emblem of the Latvian SSR was designed in accordance with the principles of socialist heraldry. It featured a combination of symbols representing the agricultural and industrial strength of the republic, as well as its connection to the Soviet Union.

The central element of the emblem was a red rising sun, symbolizing the dawn of a new era for the Latvian people under socialism. In front of the sun, there was a hammer and sickle, the universal symbol of the Soviet Union, representing the unity of workers and peasants.

The emblem was framed by a wreath of wheat and oak branches, tied together with a red ribbon bearing the motto "Proletarians of all countries, unite!" in both Latvian ("Visu zemju proletārieši, savienojieties!") and Russian ("Пролетарии всех стран, соединяйтесь!"). At the top of the emblem, there was a red star, symbolizing the victory of communism and the international solidarity of the socialist states.

Historical Context

The emblem was introduced shortly after the Soviet occupation of Latvia in 1940, which led to the establishment of the Latvian SSR. It replaced the previous Coat of arms of Latvia, which had been used by the independent Republic of Latvia since 1921.

The design of the emblem was influenced by the Emblem of the Soviet Union and other Soviet republics' emblems, which shared common elements such as the hammer and sickle, the red star, and agricultural motifs.

Usage

The emblem was used on official documents, government buildings, and other state properties. It was also featured on the flag of the Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic, which consisted of a red field with the emblem in the upper canton.

Post-Soviet Period

After Latvia declared the restoration of its independence on August 21, 1991, the emblem of the Latvian SSR was replaced by the restored Coat of arms of Latvia. The new coat of arms was based on the design used by the independent Republic of Latvia before the Soviet occupation.

See Also

• Emblem of the Soviet Union
• Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic
• Coat of arms of Latvia
• Flag of the Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic
• Soviet heraldry