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[[File:Lithuania_in_the_map_of_Pietro_Vesconte,_1321.png|left|Lithuania in the map of Pietro Vesconte, 1321|thumb]] [[File:Baltic_Tribes_c_1200.svg|left|Baltic Tribes c 1200|thumb|left]] [[File:1712._Samogitie_et_Lithuanie_Propre,_Grand_Duché_de_Lithuanie.png|left|1712. Samogitie et Lithuanie Propre, Grand Duché de Lithuanie|thumb]] [[File:Etnoregionai.png|left|Etnoregionai|thumb]] [[File:PLOS_3.PNG|PLOS 3|thumb]] '''Lithuanians''' are a [[Baltic peoples|Baltic ethnic group]], native to [[Lithuania]], where they number around 2.8 million people. Additionally, significant populations of Lithuanians are found in other countries, including the [[United States]], [[Brazil]], [[Canada]], the [[United Kingdom]], [[Australia]], and others, contributing to a global Lithuanian diaspora. Lithuanians speak the [[Lithuanian language]], one of the oldest languages in the world today that still retains features of [[Proto-Indo-European language|Proto-Indo-European]].

==History==
The history of the Lithuanian people stretches back to at least the 9th century AD, with the first known record in 1009 in the [[Quedlinburg Chronicle]]. Throughout the centuries, Lithuanians formed various tribal entities and later established the [[Grand Duchy of Lithuania]], which became one of the largest countries in Europe in the 14th century through a union with [[Poland]] in the [[Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth]]. This state played a significant role in European history before being partitioned in the late 18th century, with Lithuania falling under [[Russian Empire|Russian]] control.

Following World War I, Lithuania regained independence in 1918, only to be occupied by the [[Soviet Union]] and [[Nazi Germany]] during World War II. After the war, it became a [[Soviet Socialist Republic]] until regaining independence in 1990 with the fall of the Soviet Union. Since then, Lithuania has developed a robust democratic system and joined various international organizations, including the [[European Union]] and [[NATO]].

==Culture==
Lithuanian culture is a blend of indigenous traditions and foreign influences, particularly from Poland, Russia, and Germany. It is rich in folklore, music, and art. The [[Dainų šventė]] (Song Festival) is a notable event, showcasing traditional Lithuanian songs, dances, and music, recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

[[Lithuanian cuisine]] is typically hearty, featuring potatoes, rye, beetroot, dairy products, and meat. Traditional dishes include [[cepelinai]] (potato dumplings stuffed with meat or curd), [[šaltibarščiai]] (cold beet soup), and [[kugelis]] (a potato pudding).

==Religion==
The majority of Lithuanians are [[Roman Catholic]], with Catholicism playing a significant role in Lithuanian identity and public life. There are also smaller communities of [[Lutherans]], [[Russian Orthodox]], and others.

==Language==
The Lithuanian language is part of the Baltic language group and is closely related to [[Latvian language|Latvian]], though the two are not mutually intelligible. Lithuanian is distinguished by its conservative retention of Proto-Indo-European features not found in other Indo-European languages.

==Demographics==
As of the latest census, Lithuania has a population of approximately 2.8 million people, with a significant number of Lithuanians living abroad. The Lithuanian diaspora is widespread, with large communities in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

==Notable Lithuanians==
Throughout history, many Lithuanians have gained international recognition in various fields. Notable individuals include [[Jonas Salkauskas]] (scientist), [[Czesław Miłosz]] (Nobel Prize-winning poet), and [[Arvydas Sabonis]] (professional basketball player).

==See also==
* [[History of Lithuania]]
* [[Geography of Lithuania]]
* [[Politics of Lithuania]]
* [[Economy of Lithuania]]

[[Category:Lithuanian people]]
[[Category:Ethnic groups in Europe]]

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Lithuanians - Revision history

Prab: CSV import