The History of Finland

(Hardback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

Finland has occupied the political, religious, cultural and economic border between eastern and western Europe since prehistoric times. Despite its peripheral location, the country has found itself in the mainstream of developments that created modern Europe, such as nationalism, world wars, industrialization, and the current political and economic integration. The first evidence of human life in Finland began sometime in the millennium 7,000-8,000 B.C. when small, tribal groups populated the area. In 1155, Finland became a part of the Swedish kingdom, when most of the Finnish peninsula came under the rule of the Swedish king. Finland was annexed to Russia as a result of wars between the Swedish king and Russian rulers in 1809, bringing about the Age of Autonomy or Imperial Era. The Age of Independence came when Finland's leaders declared the country's political independence in 1917 as a result of turmoil in Russia after World War I. Finland, along with several newly independent countries, had to find its place in the new Europe. The country not only did that, but created a secure and prosperous country during times of turmoil. It has emerged into a place of privilege, with high levels of prosperity, cultural achievements, and social peace. Ideal for students and general readers, the History of Finland is part of Greenwood's Histories of Modern Nations series. With over thirty nation's histories in print, these books provide readers with a concise, up-to-date history of countries throughout the world. Reference features include a biographical section highlighting notable figures in Finland's history, a timeline of important historical events, and a bibliographical essay.

Reviews

Lavery offers a survey of the history of the nation of Finland, from Ice Age prehistory through the present. Nine chapters introduce the culture, geography and climate of the country, and discuss Finland as part of the Swedish realm; 19th century autonomy; Russian rule (dubbed the Age of Oppression), independence, and civil war; the country's roles in WWII and the Cold War; and its current culture, politics, and economy. The final chapter profiles notable people in Finnish history. * Reference & Research Book News *

Author Bio

Jason Lavery is Associate Professor of History at Oklahoma State University.