The Act of Independence of Lithuania was signed by the Council of Lithuania on February 16, 1918, asserting Lithuania's independence from foreign rule. This declaration came as World War I was nearing its end and the geopolitical landscape of Europe was shifting dramatically. The Council, made up of Lithuanian political leaders, was inspired by the idea of national self-determination and the weakening grip of both the Russian Empire and the German Empire on Lithuanian lands. The decision to declare independence was viewed as a necessary step to establish a national state that encompassed the ethnic Lithuanian population.

The location of this historic meeting was in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, where delegates gathered to discuss the future of their nation in the aftermath of war. The declaration was not only a formal announcement but also a rallying cry that invigorated the Lithuanian population. It emphasized the importance of unity and brought together various factions within Lithuania, including liberals, conservatives, and socialists, all of whom shared a common goal of sovereignty. This shared vision fostered a sense of national identity among Lithuanians and laid the foundation for a future independent state.

Despite the hopeful tone of the declaration, challenges loomed ahead. Post-war Europe was fraught with instability, and Lithuania faced both military threats and political uncertainty as neighboring countries vied for territory. Nonetheless, the Act of Independence remained a cornerstone of Lithuanian national pride and identity. Over the years, February 16 has been commemorated as a national holiday, symbolizing the enduring spirit and resilience of the Lithuanian people in their quest for freedom.