LITHUANIA (AD 1919–1940},{1991–) State, capitalist, republic (Republic of Lithuania). (It originated on the territory of modern Lithuania as a result of separation from Soviet Russia (independence was proclaimed on February 16, 1918) and the cessation of the existence of the Lithuanian-Belarusian SSR}, {It became part of the USSR. Withdrew from the USSR). Capitals - Kaunas (until 1940), Vilnius (since 1991)