punakassedad

Punakassedad is a Finnish term that literally translates to "red hats." It most commonly refers to members of the Finnish Civil War's Red Guard, who fought against the White Guard. The Red Guard was a socialist paramilitary organization that was active during the Finnish Civil War of 1918. They were primarily composed of industrial workers, agricultural laborers, and some intellectuals. Their aims included establishing a socialist republic in Finland and achieving greater social and economic equality. The Red Guard was ultimately defeated by the White Guard, which was supported by the German Empire.

The term "punakassedad" can also be used more broadly and colloquially in Finland to refer to individuals with left-leaning or socialist political views. This usage is often employed in casual conversation or political discourse, sometimes with a slightly pejorative connotation depending on the context and speaker. The historical context of the Civil War often colors this modern usage. It is important to understand the historical significance of the term when encountering it in Finnish discussions. The red color itself became a potent symbol of the socialist movement in Finland.