Lähistoria

Lähistoria is a Finnish term that translates to "recent history" or "near history." It broadly refers to the historical period that is still within the living memory of many people or has had a direct and tangible impact on the present. The exact timeframe encompassed by lähistoria can vary depending on context, but it generally covers the latter half of the 20th century and the early 21st century.

This period is characterized by significant global and national transformations. Key events and developments often included in discussions of lähistoria are the Cold War and its conclusion, the rise of globalization, rapid technological advancements such as the internet and mobile communication, major geopolitical shifts, and evolving social and cultural landscapes. In Finland specifically, lähistoria encompasses the post-World War II era, the country's economic development, its integration into European structures like the EU, and the challenges and opportunities presented by a rapidly changing world.

Unlike distant historical periods, lähistoria is often studied and discussed not only through academic research and archival materials but also through personal testimonies, media archives, and contemporary cultural products. The proximity of these events allows for a more immediate understanding of their causes and consequences, and their influence continues to shape current affairs and societal structures. The study of lähistoria helps to contextualize the present by examining the forces and decisions that have led to it.