siirtymäreitit

Siirtymäreitit, also known as the Finnish transition period, refers to the period in Finland's history that spanned from the end of the Winter War in 1940 to the beginning of the Continuation War in 1941. This period was marked by significant political and social changes as Finland transitioned from a democratic republic to a authoritarian regime under the leadership of Marshal Carl Gustaf Emil Mannerheim.

The transition began with the resignation of the government of Pehr Evind Svinhufvud in March 1940, following the Soviet Union's invasion of Finland. The new government, led by Risto Ryti, initially sought to maintain Finland's independence through diplomatic efforts. However, as the Soviet Union continued its military advances, the government faced increasing pressure and began to prepare for a potential war.

In June 1940, the government declared a state of emergency and began to implement measures to strengthen Finland's defense capabilities. This included the establishment of the Mannerheim Line, a series of fortifications along the Soviet border. The government also began to implement a series of repressive measures, including the arrest and imprisonment of political opponents and the suppression of the media.

The transition period culminated in the signing of the Moscow Peace Treaty in March 1940, which ceded significant territory to the Soviet Union in exchange for peace. The treaty was widely criticized in Finland as a betrayal of the country's independence and sovereignty.

The siirtymäreitit period is often remembered in Finland as a time of darkness and uncertainty, marked by the suppression of political dissent and the implementation of a repressive regime. However, it is also seen as a necessary step in preserving Finland's independence and sovereignty in the face of Soviet aggression. The period ended with the outbreak of the Continuation War in June 1941, when Finland, along with Germany, declared war on the Soviet Union.