FinnNorwegian

FinnNorwegian refers to a demographic and cultural group primarily found in the northern regions of Norway, specifically Finnmark county. This group is characterized by its ancestral ties to Finland and has a distinct cultural heritage shaped by this origin and its Norwegian environment. Historically, the migration of Finnish people to northern Norway, often referred to as Kven migration, occurred in waves, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries. These settlers brought with them their language, customs, and traditional ways of life, which have influenced the cultural landscape of the region.

The FinnNorwegian identity is closely linked to the Kven language, a Finnic language related to Finnish. While the use of Kven has declined over generations, efforts are underway to preserve and revitalize it. Culturally, FinnNorwegians have contributed to the region's folklore, music, cuisine, and social traditions. Their history is often intertwined with that of the Sami people, the indigenous inhabitants of the area, leading to a complex and multicultural societal fabric. The term "FinnNorwegian" can sometimes be used broadly to encompass anyone of Finnish descent living in Norway, but it most commonly refers to those with a more direct connection to the historical Kven settlements and their enduring cultural legacy. The identity remains a significant part of the cultural mosaic of northern Norway.