11th November in Latvia
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The 11th November in Latvia is known as Lāčplēša diena ( Bear Slayers Day ) A day of remembrance to the brave men who defended the capital of Latvia in 1919 during the war of independence here in Latvia.
The 11th of November is a special day of importance in the Latvian calendar. It marks the defeat of Pavel Bermondt-Avalov’s army, who attempted to seize the city of Riga from the Latvian Nationalists in 1919.
Only a week after the First World War was coming to an end, the Latvian nation was just beginning its path to a fully independent republic on 18th November 1918 with the declaration of Independence.
As soon as the Latvian Nationalist government declared independence, a war for the future of this nation began. With Bolsheviks, Nationalists, German and Russian Imperial volunteer armies fighting to decide who would rule this land. This war is known as the War of Independence and is pivotal in understanding the Latvian identity.
Lāčplēša Day is one of the most significant dates in Latvian history, celebrated annually on November 11th to commemorate the decisive victory of Latvian forces in the War of Independence in 1919 and its meaning for Latvian national identity and statehood.
Historical Context
On November 11, 1919, the Latvian army successfully repelled the attack of Pavel Bermondt-Avalov’s troops on Riga. This day marked the pinnacle of the Latvian national resistance and freedom struggle, as after a series of battles, Latvia’s fighters secured the country’s independence. Lāčplēša Day is named after the hero of the Latvian national epic, Lāčplēsis, who symbolizes strength, courage, and self-sacrifice in the fight for freedom.
Meaning of Lāčplēša Day
Lāčplēša Day is dedicated to all those who, with bravery, sacrifice, and heroism, participated in the fight for Latvia’s independence and defense. On this day, fallen Latvian soldiers and all freedom fighters are commemorated. Traditionally, the day also marks the awarding of the Lāčplēša War Order, the highest Latvian military honor.
Traditions and Social Significance
Today, November 11th is marked across Latvia with memorial events, including candle lighting at the Freedom Monument and other historic sites. A cherished tradition is illuminating riversides with candles, expressing gratitude and respect to those who gave their lives for Latvia’s freedom.
Lāčplēša Day in Latvian Identity
Lāčplēša Day strengthens the sense of belonging and citizenship in Latvia and reminds society of the cost of freedom. It serves not only as a historical remembrance but also as a unifying symbol for the nation and generations, encouraging people to value and protect the hard-won independence secured by the courageous Latvian freedom fighters.
Every year, Lāčplēša Day reminds Latvia of the enduring significance of freedom and independence, uniting the nation to honor its history, celebrate its heroes, and strengthen national identity. Candles are lit along the riverside down towards Riga castle each year.
Where does the name Lāčplēsis come from?
Lāčplēsis is the legendary hero of the Latvian national epic, created by Andrejs Pumpurs and published in 1888. His name means "The Bear Slayer," and his story is a blend of ancient Latvian folklore and myth.
Mythical Origins and Qualities
Lāčplēsis was born to a she-bear and gained superhuman strength from her milk, which resides in his bear-like ears. As a child, he defeated a bear threatening his village, earning his heroic title. He symbolizes Latvian courage, strength, and the nation's enduring spirit in the face of adversity.
Role in Latvian Culture
The story of Lāčplēsis unfolds during the Livonian Crusades, where he fights German crusaders and evil forces, defending his people and homeland. His battles and ultimate sacrifice have become symbols of Latvian unity, resistance, and hope for freedom. The epic’s themes echo in Latvia’s history, particularly during struggles for independence, making Lāčplēsis a central figure in national identity.
Legacy
Lāčplēsis is commemorated annually on Lāčplēša Day, November 11th, as a symbol of Latvia’s fight and victory for independence. His saga continues to inspire Latvians and is reflected in monuments, ceremonies, and the highest military honor, the Lāčplēsis War Order.
Pavel Bermondt-Avalov was a Russian Imperial officer, Cossack warlord, and notable anti-Bolshevik military leader best known as the commander of the West Russian Volunteer Army, also called the Bermontians, which operated in Latvia and Lithuania after World War I.
Who Was Pavel Bermondt-Avalov?
Born in 1877 in Tbilisi (then Tiflis, Russian Empire), Bermondt-Avalov came from a Georgian-Russian background, received a musical education, and served in the Russian Imperial Army, including in the Russo-Japanese War and World War I.
After the Russian Revolution, he became a prominent figure among the White movement, taking a leadership role in anti-Bolshevik efforts in the Baltics.
The West Russian Volunteer Army ("Bermontians")
His army, known as the West Russian Volunteer Army, was largely composed of Russian POWs released from German camps, German Freikorps veterans, and other pro-German, anti-Bolshevik elements.
The force, at times reaching roughly 50,000 men, was initially meant to support anti-Bolshevik White armies but instead attempted to establish a pro-German regime in Latvia and Lithuania.
The Bermontians engaged in raids, pillaging, and atrocities against local populations. Their rule was characterized by instability, lack of discipline, and brutality, leading to their infamy, especially in Latvian historical memory.
Fate, Death, and War Crimes
After military defeats by the armies of Latvia and Lithuania (aided by Estonia and the Entente), Bermondt-Avalov retreated with his surviving forces into Germany by the end of 1919.
He spent subsequent years involved with monarchist and far-right organizations in Germany, later living in Belgrade and eventually immigrating to the United States.
Bermondt-Avalov died in New York City, United States, on December 27, 1973.
Trial for War Crimes?
Despite the brutality and atrocities committed by his troops, there is no evidence that Bermondt-Avalov was ever formally tried or held accountable for war crimes in any country.
He lived openly in several European countries and in the U.S. after the wars, publishing memoirs and engaging with emigrant organizations, further suggesting he was not prosecuted.
In summary, while Bermondt-Avalov’s army committed well-documented atrocities in the Baltics, he himself was never put on trial for war crimes and lived out his life abroad, dying in New York in 1973.
Find out about the events in Riga here on the 11th November 2025 - https://www.liveriga.com/en/3286-november-11-lacplesis-day/