Dive into the visual history of Estonia with "Päevapildid," a photo album that encapsulates the birth, prosperity, and eventual downfall of the Estonian Republic from 1918 to 1940. Unlike traditional history books, this collection prioritizes the power of imagery to convey the essence of the era, offering a unique glimpse into the past through a rich tapestry of photographs.
This book is a treasure trove for those who yearn to connect with history on a personal level. It's particularly suited for students who are inundated with names, dates, and facts, but lack a tangible sense of what life looked like in the pre-war period. From the fashion of the day to the design of everyday objects like shops, saunas, buses, and telephones, "Päevapildid" brings history to life in a way that words alone cannot.
Crafted with care, this album is akin to a family heirloom, inviting readers of all ages to leaf through its pages as one would an old family album. The collection resonates with those who cherish the nostalgia evoked by their grandparents' photo albums. And just like those personal archives, some photographs come with scant information, leaving names and dates to the imagination and further research.
Selecting the images for this book was no small feat, given the half a million photographs available in the film archives. The curators, Ivi Tomingas, Tiit Noormets, and Enno Tammer, have meticulously chosen photographs that have seldom been seen before, ensuring that "Päevapildid" offers a fresh perspective on Estonia's history.
Moreover, the abundance of photographs ensures that there will always be more to discover, both within the pages of "Päevapildid" and for future visitors to the archives. This photo album is not just a collection of images; it's an invitation to explore, to learn, and to feel connected to the rich tapestry of Estonia's past.
