Vastatapahtuma

Vastatapahtuma, also known as the Great Event, is a significant historical event that occurred in Finland in 1918. It refers to the Russian Revolution and the subsequent Finnish Civil War, which had profound impacts on Finland's political and social landscape.

The Russian Revolution began in March 1917, leading to the overthrow of the Tsarist regime. This political instability spread to Finland, which was then an autonomous Grand Duchy within the Russian Empire. The revolution sparked a series of strikes and protests in Finland, with workers and soldiers demanding greater autonomy and self-determination.

The Finnish Civil War erupted in January 1918, as the Finnish Social Democratic Party (SDP) and the Finnish Communist Party (SKP) fought against the White Guard, a coalition of conservative and monarchist forces. The war lasted until May 1918 and resulted in a decisive victory for the Red Guards, who were supported by the Bolsheviks in Russia.

The war had devastating consequences, with an estimated 30,000 to 50,000 people killed and many more injured or displaced. The Red Victory led to the establishment of the Finnish Socialist Workers' Republic, which lasted from May to December 1918. However, the Bolsheviks' support for the republic was short-lived, and they were eventually forced to withdraw their troops.

In December 1918, Finland declared independence from Russia, and a new constitution was drafted, establishing Finland as a parliamentary republic. The Vastatapahtuma marked a turning point in Finland's history, shaping its political culture and social welfare system. It also had lasting effects on Finland's relationship with Russia and the broader international community.