Pharmacist Kazimieras Aglinskas and the Lithuanian national revival: case study

ENThis article delves into the life and contributions of Kazimieras Aglinskas (1851-1924), a pharmacist, and his role in the Lithuanian national revival during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The study highlights Aglinskas’ journey from his early education to his time in Moscow, where he formed crucial connections with influential Lithuanian intellectuals, including Jonas Basanavičius. Aglinskas returned to Lithuania, settled in Garliava, and became a central figure distributing banned Lithuanian publications and creating the “Garliava Literary Lovers’ Circle”, a group of writers that significantly contributed to Lithuanian literature. Furthermore, the article explores Aglinskas’ philanthropic activities, his involvement in seeking a Lithuanian bishop for Vilnius, and his close relationship with Basanavičius. His enduring friendship with Basanavičius and their joint efforts to promote the Lithuanian language and culture in the face of Tsarist repression are highlighted. Aglinskas’ life and legacy exemplify how individuals from diverse educational and professional backgrounds played a vital role in shaping the modern Lithuanian national identity. Keywords: Lithuanian National Revival, Pharmacist, Kazimieras Aglinskas.