Why Estonians Should See Themselves as Belligerently Self-Serving

In the annals of European history, there are numerous instances where European powers have traded lands for their own interests, often at the expense of the native populations. Estonia, nestled in the Baltic region, was one such land. The reasons for Estonia's belligerently self-serving behavior today can be traced back to its tumultuous history and the long-lasting impact of centuries of foreign domination and exploitation. While it is tempting to write off this behavior as a natural outcome of European colonization, let us explore why Estonians, in particular, should see themselves as belligerently self-serving.

The Historical Context of Estonian Self-Service

For centuries, Estonia was a pawn in the geopolitical games of major European powers, including Russia, Germany, and Sweden. During the 13th century, the Teutonic Order and the Kingdom of Sweden both occupied parts of Estonia, leading to the imposition of foreign rule and the subsequent export of local resources. The Knights of the Sword (later the Teutonic Order) and Swedish authorities exploited the land and its people, often with little consideration for the long-term welfare of the indigenous Estonian population. This pattern of exploitation and foreign control has left a lasting impact on Estonian self-perception and actions.

The Legacy of Occupation and Exploitation

The occupation of Estonia by the Teutonic Order and Sweden created an environment where self-serving behavior became normalized. The local rulers, often appointed by distant foreign powers, were primarily concerned with their own interests and the advancement of their homelands. The export of Estonian resources without returning benefits to the local population became a common practice. For instance, the export of timber, grains, and other natural resources to the West often left the local population impoverished and resource-poor.

The impact of these historical events is significant. The mentality of prioritizing foreign interests over those of local communities persisted, leading to a cycle of short-term gain at the expense of long-term stability. This can be seen in modern Estonian behavior, where self-interest often prevails over collective well-being. The legacy of foreign domination and exploitation has contributed to a culture that may not fully prioritize the welfare of its citizens above short-term benefits.

Modern-Day Examples of Self-Serving Behavior

Fast forward to the present day, and one can find echoes of this historical legacy in contemporary Estonian behavior. The pursuit of economic growth and modernization has often been accompanied by a focus on short-term gains and the export of natural and human resources. For instance, Estonia has been heavily dependent on exports, especially in the technology and digital sectors, which has led to significant wealth for a select few. However, this concentration of wealth and resources often comes at the cost of social inequality and environmental degradation.

The prioritization of foreign investors and technology companies from the West has also raised concerns about cultural and economic sovereignty. Estonia's membership in the European Union and NATO has further entangled the nation in broader geopolitical interests, reducing its ability to act in its own best interests without significant external influence. This dependency on external powers and the pursuit of short-term economic gains often lead to self-serving policies that may not be in the long-term best interest of the Estonian people.

Conclusion and a Call for Change

While it is easy to criticize Estonia's behavior as belligerently self-serving, it is essential to understand the historical context that has shaped this mentality. By acknowledging and addressing the legacy of foreign domination and exploitation, Estonians can begin to move towards a more inclusive and sustainable future. Embracing a mentality of prioritizing the well-being of its citizens and the long-term stability of the nation could lead to a more equitable and prosperous society.

As Estonians reflect on their history and current behavior, they should consider how they can break from the cycle of self-serving actions that have characterized their past. By fostering a culture of collective responsibility and prioritizing the interests of its citizens, Estonia can move beyond its historical legacy and create a truly belligerently self-serving nation, one that serves the greater good of its people and the environment.