Sotiemme

Sotiemme is a term of Finnish origin that translates to "our war." It is most commonly associated with the period of Finnish history during World War II, specifically the Continuation War (1941-1944) and the Lapland War (1944-1945). During these conflicts, Finland fought against the Soviet Union, initially as an ally of Nazi Germany, and later against German forces. The term "sotiemme" evokes a sense of shared national experience and sacrifice during a critical and challenging time for Finland. It encompasses the military campaigns, the home front efforts, and the collective memory of a nation defending its sovereignty. The wars had a profound impact on Finnish society, politics, and its relationship with its neighbors, shaping the country's post-war identity and foreign policy. The term is used in historical discourse, literature, and personal recollections to refer to these wartime experiences.