Isäntäiskun

Isäntäiskun is a Finnish term that translates to "host's strike" or "landlord's strike" in English. It refers to a historical situation where landlords or large landowners collectively refused to rent out their property or provide services, often as a form of protest or to exert economic pressure. This tactic was more common in the late 19th and early 20th centuries during periods of social and economic tension, particularly concerning agricultural labor relations and tenant rights.

The purpose of an isäntäiskun was typically to counter the demands of agricultural workers or tenant farmers for better wages, working conditions, or rent reductions. By withholding their property, landlords aimed to create scarcity and force concessions from the laborers or tenants. This action could lead to significant hardship for those dependent on rented land for their livelihood.

While not a frequent occurrence, isäntäiskun represented a powerful tool in the hands of landowners in disputes. It highlights the historical power dynamics in rural economies and the methods employed by different social classes to achieve their objectives during periods of conflict over resources and labor. The effectiveness of such strikes depended on the prevailing economic conditions and the degree of unity among the landowners.