In a Nutshell
- Capital: Helsinki
- Population: Approx. 5.5 million (2021)
- Official Language: Finnish
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
Breaking Down the Country
Natural Wonders
From the Northern Lights to thousands of lakes, Finland showcases untouched wilderness and breathtaking landscapes.
Sauna Culture
Experience the Finnish sauna tradition, a vital part of Finnish culture for relaxation, socializing, and general well-being.
Innovative Design
Discover Finland's design heritage, known for sleek, functional aesthetics in architecture, furniture, and everyday objects.
The Wizard's Chronicle
Introduction
Matti Nyk\u00e4nen
Tarja Halonen
Sibelius
Moomins
Lordi
Sauna Santa
1. Geography
2. History
3. Culture
4. Education
5. Economy
6. Nature
7. Sauna Culture
8. Midnight Sun and Northern Lights
9. Santa Claus Village
10. Outdoor Activities
The Chronomancer's Map
First settlers arrive in Finland
Swedish Crusade against Finland
Swedish rule established in Finland
Great Northern War between Sweden and Russia
Treaty of Nystad: Finland ceded to Russia
Finland becomes part of the Russian Empire
Finnish War of Independence
Finland declares independence from Russia
Finnish Civil War
Winter War between Finland and the Soviet Union
Continuation War between Finland and the Soviet Union
Treaty of Paris: Finland cedes territory to the Soviet Union
Finland joins the United Nations
Finland becomes a member of the European Union
Helsinki Summit: Meeting between US President George H.W. Bush and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev
Finland hosts the Summer Olympics in Helsinki
Finnish presidential election: Tarja Halonen becomes the first female President of Finland
Finland celebrates its 100th anniversary of independence
COVID-19 pandemic reaches Finland
Sanna Marin becomes the youngest Prime Minister of Finland
The Wizard's Lexicon
- Suomi
- Finnish name for Finland
- Helsinki
- Capital city of Finland
- Sauna
- Traditional Finnish steam bath
- Lapland
- Northern region of Finland known for its winter activities
- Sisu
- Finnish concept of resilience and determination
- Moomin
- Finnish cartoon characters created by Tove Jansson
- Finnair
- National airline of Finland
- Karelia
- Historical region in eastern Finland
- Rovaniemi
- City in Lapland known as the official hometown of Santa Claus
- Nordic
- Term used to describe countries in Northern Europe, including Finland
Why It Matters
Geopolitical Significance
Finland’s location between Scandinavia and Russia has historically placed it at the center of geopolitical tensions. Its border with Russia, its access to the Baltic Sea, and its status as a neutral country during the Cold War have all influenced its international relations and security policies.
Historical Importance
Finland has a long history of struggle for independence and sovereignty, including its wars against Russia in the early 20th century. The Winter War against the Soviet Union in 1939-1940 is a key event in Finnish history, shaping its national identity and foreign relations.
Modern-Day Role
Today, Finland is known for its high quality of life, advanced technology sector, and strong commitment to environmental sustainability. As a member of the European Union, Finland plays a role in shaping EU policies and is seen as a model for social welfare and innovation.
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