In 1940, Soviet policies in the Baltic States aimed at Russification significantly impacted local languages and cultures. These policies sought to suppress local identities and promote Russian language and culture, leading to tensions and resistance among the local populations. The legacy of these policies continues to influence the cultural landscape of the Baltic States today.

Soviet presence in the Baltic States since 1940 has inspired resistance poetry in native tongues. Poets like Anna Akhmatova and Tomas Venclova have articulated themes of oppression and cultural survival.