"The Europe of those times, ravaged by wars, threats and mistrust, did not act warmly and enthusiastically towards small nations, particularly the newly emerged states. Then again, many had doubts about the Declaration: Will it not be looked upon in Lithuania as an expression of the political of only a few intellectuals? Will Lithuanians stand together in statehood after 120 years of subjugation and national humiliation under Tsarist Russia? Such doubts were quickly dispelled by the Nation who immediately stepped forward and found faith in the historic vision delivered by the signatories. With their immediate roots in rural Lithuania and a strong wish to pursue a modern urban lifestyle, people across Lithuania readily accepted the Declaration of Independence, defended it in blood and converted it into actuality."