Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, experienced a tumultuous transition in 1941 as it was occupied by Nazi Germany. Following the Soviet annexation in 1940, the city was subject to oppressive Soviet policies, leading to resentment among Estonians. In June 1941, Germany launched Operation Barbarossa, targeting the Soviet Union. By late August, German forces advanced rapidly across the Baltic region, reaching Tallinn. The occupation was welcomed by many locals who saw the Germans as liberators from Soviet control. However, this initial optimism was overshadowed by the harsh realities of German military rule.

The change in control had immediate implications for the population's daily life and political landscape. The German administration implemented policies that aimed to reshape society along Nazi ideological lines. This included the persecution of Jews and other minorities, along with repressive measures against dissent. Throughout the occupation, the city became a hub for German military operations in the Baltics, further entrenching the regime's presence in the region.

Economically, the occupation disrupted local industries and agriculture as they were redirected to serve the needs of the German war effort. The population faced food shortages and labor exploitation as they were compelled to work for the occupiers. The complexities of occupation led to varying local responses, ranging from collaboration to resistance. The Nazi occupation of Tallinn ultimately laid the groundwork for continued conflict and suffering in Estonia as it became a battleground in the Eastern Front.