Baltic facts for kids
The word Baltic refers to things connected to the Baltic Sea. It can describe the sea itself, the countries and lands around it, or a group of countries on its eastern shore.
The Baltic Sea
The Baltic Sea is a large body of water in Northern Europe. It is almost completely surrounded by land. Countries like Sweden, Finland, Russia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, and Denmark all have coastlines along this sea.
The Baltic Sea is quite shallow and has less salt than the ocean. This is because many rivers flow into it, bringing fresh water. It connects to the North Sea through narrow passages called the Danish Straits. In winter, parts of the sea, especially in the north, can freeze over.
This sea has been an important trade route for centuries. Ships carry goods between the surrounding countries. It is also home to many different kinds of fish and other sea creatures.
The Baltic Region
The Baltic region is the area that surrounds the Baltic Sea. It includes all the countries that touch the sea, as well as some nearby areas. This region has a shared history and culture, influenced by the sea.
For a long time, trade and travel across the Baltic Sea connected these lands. People from different countries exchanged goods, ideas, and traditions. This created a unique cultural mix in the region.
The climate in the Baltic region is generally cool, with cold winters and mild summers. Forests are common, and many areas have beautiful coastlines.
The Baltic States
The term Baltic states refers specifically to three countries located on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea:
These three countries gained their independence after World War I. However, they were later taken over by the Soviet Union during World War II. They regained their independence in the early 1990s, around 1991.
Since then, the Baltic states have developed quickly. They joined the European Union and NATO, which are important groups for cooperation and safety in Europe. They have modern economies and are popular places for tourists to visit. These countries are known for their beautiful old towns, forests, and unique cultures.
