Tallinn Trip – Estonian History Museum (Briefcase of Siim Kallas)

In the middle of a display at the Estonian History Museum is this seemingly unremarkable object which sits bathed in a slightly dramatic yellow glow. It’s a briefcase. A rather sleek, black briefcase, with gleaming gold clasps. But this is no ordinary briefcase. This is the briefcase of Siim Kallas, former Estonian Finance Minister and Prime Minister. Its importance is that it represents Estonia’s journey from a newly independent nation finding its feet in the world to a confident member of the European Union, shedding its Soviet past.

Siim Kallas, a man who clearly appreciates the power of a good accessory, purchased this very briefcase at a London airport. His inspiration? None other than the iconic red briefcase of the British Chancellor of the Exchequer, famously used to transport the Budget to Parliament. Perhaps he envisioned himself, Budget in hand (or briefcase, rather), striding purposefully through the halls of Estonian Parliament, radiating an aura of fiscal responsibility and international sophistication. I mean, it must have worked to some degree as he became Prime Minister between 2002 and 2003 after holding the Finance role between 1999 and 2002.

In the years following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Estonia was eager to establish itself on the world stage. Joining the European Union was a key goal, and Mr. Kallas, with his snazzy new briefcase, was at the forefront of those efforts. Did the briefcase magically unlock the doors to the EU? Probably not. But it certainly didn’t hurt to project an image of a modern, organised, and – dare we say – stylish nation. Kallas was a respected figure though, he had worked as the Chairman of the Bank of Estonia between 1991 and 1995 so I assume he was quite good at financial stuff. A bit like Liz Truss wasn’t, but I mustn’t digress into politics. The briefcase, in its own quiet way, reflects the spirit of those times. It speaks of a nation embracing new ideas, drawing inspiration from established traditions, and forging its own path. It’s a reminder that even the smallest objects can hold significant meaning, especially when they’re carried by a man with a mission.

And, I’m glad that the museum has exhibits such as this, quirky and looking just a little irrelevant, they tell an intriguing story of their own.