Civil War in Finland

The Finnish Civil War (January-May 1918) was a conflict between the previously allied Red Guards, comprising mainly workers and socialists, and the White Guards, consisting of conservatives and nationalists. It arose after Finland declared independence from Russia in 1917, amid social and political upheaval. The Reds sought socialist reforms, while the Whites aimed to establish a conservative, independent state. The war was marked by brutal fighting and resulted in approximately 12,000 deaths. The Whites ultimately won, shaping Finland’s future government and societal structure, and leaving lasting impacts on national identity and memory.