Estonian Independence refers to the establishment of Estonia as a sovereign nation, which occurred on February 24, 1918. This declaration followed the turmoil of World War I and the collapse of the Russian Empire. The new government sought to create a democratic state, emphasizing national identity and self-determination. However, Estonia's independence was challenged by various conflicts, including the Estonian War of Independence against Bolshevik forces. By 1920, the Treaty of Tartu officially recognized Estonia's independence, solidifying its status as a nation. Estonia faced further occupation during World War II but regained independence in 1991 after the collapse of the Soviet Union.