This article gives an overview of liberalism and centrism in Estonia. It is limited to liberal and centristparties with substantial support, mainly proved by having had a representation in parliament. The sign ⇒ denotes another party in that scheme. For inclusion in this scheme it is not necessary that the party has labeled itself as a liberal party.
At the beginning of the twentieth century liberal parties emerged and played an important role in Estonia. They lost influence in the 1930s.
After the restoration of independence in 1990, both pragmatic centrist and liberal forces arose. The Estonian Reform Party (Eesti Reformierakond) is a free market liberal party.[1]: 128 Despite its liberal international affiliations the Estonian Centre Party (Eesti Keskerakond) is generally not considered a liberal party, so therefore it is not included.
From Estonian Progressive People's Party to National Centre Party
1905: Jaan Tõnisson founded the Estonian Progressive People's Party (Eesti Rahvameelne Eduerakond)
1917: The party is renamed Democratic Party (Demokraatlik Erakond)
1919: The Democratic Party merged with the ⇒ Radical Democratic Party into the Estonian People's Party (Eesti Rahvaerakond)
1931: The Estonian People's Party merged with the Christian People's Party (Kristlik Rahvaerakond) into the United People's Party (Ühendatud Rahvaerakonnad)
1932: This is followed by the merger with the ⇒ Estonian Labour Party (Tööerakond) and the Union of Landlords (Üleriikline Majaomanikkude Seltside Liit) into the National Centre Party
1991: Dissident members of Savisaar cabinet (Jaak Tamm), and centrists found the Estonian Coalition Party (Eesti Koonderakond), led by Tiit Vähi.[1]: 128–129