Šiauliai Becomes the City with Full Rights

In 1791-1795, the inhabitants of Šiauliai city became important in solving the issue of the city’s self-governance. As the centre of economy and rural district, in which all major state institutions were concentrated, the city stated that it was willing to get the full rights of the city and the coat of arms; and the townspeople, to have more freedom for themselves, which would make them more equal with the nobles, although the latter strongly opposed to this. The privilege of the Magdeburg Law to Šiauliai was granted in 1713, but unfortunately, it was not implemented. This acquired right turned into reality almost after 80 years: in 1791, the city succeeds in achieving its aim. The ruler Stanislovas Augustas confirms the right of a free city and it finally becomes independent, self-governed, and the status of townspeople begins to equal with the one of local nobility, common social unions start developing.

1. architecture
2. self-government