The Power of the Lithuanian State over Women: Assistance to the State from Lithuanian Nunneries in 1918–1940

• In Event: Gender and Memory in 20th Century Baltic States

Abstract

At the beginning of the 20th century, rapid social changes took place throughout Central and Eastern Europe, where newly established nation-states sought to demonstrate that they were more progressive and Westernized than their predecessor, the Russian Empire. Modernization in independent Lithuania became a matter of national importance, but along with these changes came new social challenges. The Roman Catholic Church, one of the most influential political and social actors in interwar Lithuania, believed that apostolic women's monasteries could help address these challenges. The activities of the sisters were intended to fill the shortage of educated people needed to shape the education system and tackle social issues. Nuns worked in orphanages and nursing homes, kindergartens, hospitals, student dormitories, and schools. During this period, more women than ever before became nuns. They helped build modern Lithuania.

Author

• Akvilė Kašiubaitė, Vytautas Magnus U (Lithuania)