The Republic of Lithuania southernmost of the Baltic states in east Europe, has an area of 26,173 sq. mi. (65,201 sq. km.) and a population of 3.69 million. Capital: Vilnius. The economy is based on livestock raising and manufacturing. Hogs, cattle, hides and electronic motors are exported. ,Lithuania emerged as a grand duchy joined to Poland through the Lublin Union in 1569. In the 15th century it was a major power of central Europe, stretching from the Baltic to the Black Sea. Following the 1795 partition of Poland by Austria, Prussia and Russia, Lithuania came under Russian domination and did not regain its independence until shortly before the end of World War I when it declared itself a sovereign republic. The republic was occupied by Soviet troops in June of 1940 and annexed to the U.S.S.R. Following the German occupation of 1941-44, it was retaken by Russia and reestablished as a member of the Soviet Union. Western countries, including the United States, did not recognize Lithuania?s incorporation into the Soviet Union. ,, ,Lithuania declared its independence March 11, 1990. Lithuania was seated in the UN General Assembly on Sept. 17, 1991.,, Monetary System:,,, ,1 Litas = 100 Centu,,