inkeriläistä

Inkeriläistä refers to the people and culture of Ingria, a historical region in northwestern Russia bordering the Gulf of Finland. Historically, the Ingrians were a Finnic group whose ancestors migrated to the area from Finland centuries ago. The term "Inkeriläistä" is the Finnish word for "Ingrian" or "of Ingria."

The Ingrian people have a distinct language, Inkerian Finnish, which is closely related to other Finnish dialects but has its own unique characteristics. Their culture is a blend of Finnish traditions and influences from the various ethnic groups and states that have controlled Ingria over time, including Sweden, Russia, and Estonia.

The history of Ingria is complex, marked by periods of prosperity and significant hardship. In the 17th century, there was a notable migration of Finns to Ingria, encouraged by Swedish rule. Later, under Russian imperial rule, the Ingrians faced various policies, including Russification. The 20th century brought immense upheaval, with forced collectivization, deportations, and suppression of Finnish culture and language during the Soviet era, particularly during and after World War II.

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, there has been a renewed interest in preserving and reviving Ingrian culture and language. Descendants of Ingrians who were dispersed or assimilated have sought to reconnect with their heritage. Today, Ingria is part of the Leningrad Oblast in Russia, and the Ingrian population is a minority within the region, with efforts underway to maintain their unique identity.