Finland kingdom history overwiev with rulers

Finland has a unique history shaped by its geographical location and interactions with neighboring powers. It did not have a traditional kingdom like other European nations but was under the rule of various kingdoms and empires throughout its history. Here's an overview: 1. **Medieval Period: - During the Middle Ages, Finland was a part of the Kingdom of Sweden. Swedish rule over Finland began in the 12th century, with the establishment of settlements and Christianization efforts led by Swedish kings and missionaries. 2. Union with Sweden**: - Finland remained a part of the Kingdom of Sweden for several centuries, experiencing periods of prosperity and development under Swedish rule. The Swedish crown granted significant autonomy to Finland, allowing the Finnish Diet to govern local affairs. 3. **Russian Rule**: - In 1809, following the Finnish War between Sweden and Russia, Finland was ceded to the Russian Empire through the Treaty of Fredrikshamn. Finland became the autonomous Grand Duchy of Finland within the Russian Empire, with the Russian Emperor serving as Grand Duke of Finland. - During this period, Finland retained its own legal system, language, and administrative structures, and the Finnish Diet continued to convene to address local issues. 4. **Finnish Independence**: - Finland declared independence from Russia on December 6, 1917, following the Russian Revolution and the collapse of the Russian Empire. This marked the beginning of the Finnish War of Independence against Bolshevik Russia. - The Finnish Senate, led by Pehr Evind Svinhufvud, served as the provisional government during the independence struggle. - Finland's independence was officially recognized by Soviet Russia, followed by other countries, and Finland became a republic with Kaarlo Juho Ståhlberg as its first president. 5. **Modern Finland**: - Following independence, Finland went through periods of political instability, including the Finnish Civil War (1918) between the Reds (socialists) and Whites (conservatives), and subsequent efforts to reconcile the divided society. - Finland remained neutral during World War II but faced significant challenges, including the Winter War (1939-1940) and the Continuation War (1941-1944) against the Soviet Union. - After the war, Finland rebuilt its economy and society and pursued a policy of neutrality and non-alignment during the Cold War. Finland's history is characterized by its ability to maintain its cultural identity and autonomy despite being under the rule of various kingdoms and empires. The country's journey to independence and subsequent development into a modern Nordic nation reflects its resilience and determination.