In September 1944, over 75 000 people fled Estonia to escape the advancing Red Army. Many left on small boats and never saw their homland again. People sought refuge in nearby Finland, Sweden and in Germany. To commemorate the event, a balloon-filled boat, the Boat of Tears, has been installed on Tallinn's Freedom Square.
The journeys made in 1944 were treacherous. Those who attempted the journey faced rough seas and often experienced engine failure. Most of the boats were dangerously overcrowded and those aboard put their lives at risk to escape. For many, staying behind would have been just as dangerous. It is not known how many people died attempting to flee.
