The history of the 20th century Tartu featured, both the highs and lows.

The idea of the independent state was born in Tartu, initiated by Jaan Tõnisson, the leader of the first Estonian political party. Lieutenant Julius Kuperjanov started his military career in Tartu, to become the hero of the War of Independence later.
The University of Tartu became the national university in 1919.
During the years of the Estonian Republic Tartu was a town of schools and education.
There was a saying, based on a similarity of words, that there were two head-cities in Estonia, one heading Estonia (the capital Tallinn) and one having the head (Tartu as a city of university and education).

World War II proved the strategical and historical truth saying that who rules Tallinn, rules Estonia, and Tallinn can be ruled only by those who have conquered Tartu.
In World War II Tartu suffered severe losses - losing people, buildings, institutions. 40% of the dwellings in Tartu were bombed and burnt down, which was even worse than the situation in Tallinn. The city centre of Tartu still bears the sad consequences of the war as it is not yet fully re-constructed.

In conclusion we can say that in the long run of history, the Spirit of Tartu has always found its way to reveal itself, and quoting a popular song, „Tartu is the most beautiful city in Estonia".

The March of Tartu, performed by Katrin Karisma, Tõnu Kilgas and the orchestra of the Estonian Defence Forces