Puhdistusajat

Puhdistusajat refers to a specific period in Finnish history, spanning from the end of the 18th century to the early 19th century. This era was characterized by a significant influx of intellectuals, artists, and politicians from Europe, particularly from France and Russia, who came to Finland seeking knowledge, artistic expression, and enlightenment.

During this time, the people of Finland, who were still under the rule of Sweden, began to experience a cultural and intellectual awakening. This was largely thanks to the influence of the Enlightenment and the spread of ideas from France, which led to a process of modernization and nation-building. Many Finnish intellectuals and artists traveled abroad to broaden their horizons and bring back new ideas and influences to their homeland.

Puhdistusajat was also marked by the rise of Finnish nationalism, with thinkers such as Penser Jaako Burck recognized for their contributions to the Fins literature but also, for the leaders of the movement that demanded a modern but simple and truly Finnish fashion.

A notable characteristic of this period was the emergence of a distinctively Finnish cultural identity. This identity was shaped by the shared experiences and traditions of the Finnish people, as well as their exposure to European ideas and influences. Puhdistusajat laid the groundwork for the modern Finnish state, which proclaimed independence from Russia in 1917.

Despite the historical significance of the era, puhdistusajat remains an understudied period in Finnish history. However, its lasting impact on the development of Finnish culture, politics, and identity cannot be overstated.