Historical Encyclopedia
The independence of Finland is one of the most significant milestones in the country's history, marking the culmination of a centuries-long struggle for sovereignty. Finland's recognition of independence from the Russian Empire in 1917 initiated the formation of the modern Finnish state. This process occurred against the backdrop of political upheavals, revolutionary events, and a tense situation in Europe. Finland not only achieved independence but also preserved its national identity despite challenging foreign policy conditions.
Throughout the 19th century, Finland was under the rule of the Russian Empire as an autonomous Grand Duchy. Maintaining its laws, language, and cultural traditions, the Finns established strong foundations for national self-awareness and a desire for autonomy. However, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Russian policies of Russification intensified the Finns' quest for independence. The restriction of autonomy, the introduction of the Russian language in administrative institutions, and pressure on Finnish institutions led to the growth of the national movement.
World War I, which began in 1914, significantly altered the political landscape of Europe and heightened instability within the Russian Empire. In 1917, following the February Revolution and the overthrow of the monarchy in Russia, Finland seized the opportunity to lessen its dependence on Russian influence. The Finnish Parliament declared independence from the Russian Republic in July 1917, but this decision was not recognized by Petrograd. However, the October Revolution in Russia in October 1917 further destabilized the situation, opening the way for Finland to proclaim its independence definitively.
On December 6, 1917, the Finnish Parliament officially declared Finland's independence. This decision was made by a majority vote, and the date became a national holiday — Independence Day of Finland. The country's independence was proclaimed amidst a political crisis and significant internal contradictions, yet the aspiration for sovereignty united various political forces.
After the proclamation of independence, Finland began the process of recognition of its sovereignty on the international stage. In December 1917, the Council of People's Commissars led by Vladimir Lenin recognized Finland's independence, marking an important step in strengthening its international status. Soon after the recognition by Soviet Russia, other countries followed suit, including Sweden, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. Thus, Finland became a full member of the international community.
Shortly after the proclamation of independence, a civil war erupted in Finland, dividing the country into two camps — the "Reds" and the "Whites." The "Reds" supported socialist ideas inspired by the October Revolution in Russia, while the "Whites" advocated for the preservation of independence and the establishment of a republic based on democratic principles. The war began in January 1918 and lasted until May of that year.
The "Whites" received support from Germany, while the "Reds" relied on help from Soviet Russia. As a result, the "Whites," led by General Carl Gustav Emil Mannerheim, emerged victorious and became a national hero and a symbol of the struggle for independence. The outcomes of the civil war left a deep mark on society, but the victory of the "Whites" ensured the consolidation of Finland's sovereignty and further movement towards a democratic state.
After the civil war, Finland began actively building the institutions of an independent state. In 1919, a new constitution was adopted, proclaiming Finland as a republic with a presidential form of government. The first president of Finland was Carl Juhani Ståhlberg, who advocated for the strengthening of democracy and the development of the rule of law.
Independent Finland faced many challenges, including economic difficulties, recovery from the civil war, and the need to create national armed forces. Nevertheless, the country steadily developed its institutions of power, judicial system, and education system, contributing to the strengthening of democracy and stability in society.
World War II became one of the most challenging periods for independent Finland. In 1939, the Soviet Union issued territorial demands against Finland, leading to the beginning of the Soviet-Finnish War, known as the Winter War. The war ended in 1940 with the signing of the Moscow Peace, by which Finland ceded part of its territories, including the Karelian Isthmus, to the USSR.
However, in 1941, Finland entered World War II on the side of Germany with the aim of reclaiming lost territories. This conflict, known as the "Continuation War," lasted until 1944. Despite significant losses, Finland managed to maintain its independence and avoid occupation. In September 1944, Finland signed a peace treaty with the USSR, which established new borders and obligated Finland to pay reparations.
After the war, Finland found itself in a challenging position: it had to rebuild its economy, pay reparations to the Soviet Union, and maintain its sovereignty. Finland adopted a policy of neutrality, which allowed the country to maintain friendly relations with both the Soviet Union and the West. The signing of the Finnish-Soviet Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation, and Mutual Assistance in 1948 was an important step toward strengthening the country's neutral status.
In the 1950s, economic growth began, continuing until the 1980s. Finland actively developed its industry, forestry, and agriculture, which enabled it to become one of the most developed countries in Northern Europe. The foreign policy of neutrality helped Finland avoid involvement in military blocs and maintain stable relations with the USSR and Western countries.
With the end of the Cold War and the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Finland began integrating into Western structures. In 1995, Finland joined the European Union, marking an important step in its history and allowing for the strengthening of economic and political ties with European countries. Finland became a full member of the EU while maintaining its neutral status and avoiding alignment with military alliances.
Integration into the European Union provided Finland with new opportunities for economic growth and cooperation with neighboring countries. Joining the Schengen area and adopting the euro contributed to strengthening economic stability and secured Finland's important place in European politics. Through successful adaptation to new conditions, the country became a prosperous democratic state with a high standard of living and a stable political system.
Finland's independence was achieved through a long struggle for sovereignty and national identity. Despite challenging historical circumstances and foreign policy challenges, Finland managed to preserve its independence, develop democratic institutions, and create a prosperous society. The journey from an autonomous duchy to an independent republic was accompanied by numerous difficulties, including a civil war and participation in global conflicts.
Today, Finland is a democratic state with a high standard of living and a developed economy. The path to independence represents a crucial period in the country's history and laid the foundation for its future prosperity. Finland continues to uphold the principles of neutrality and actively participates in international organizations, playing a significant role on the global stage.