Start of the Finnish Civil War

January 27th, 1918

January 27th, 1918

Start of the Finnish Civil War
How Long Ago?

107 years, 1 month, 16 days ago

Location

Finland

Category

Military & Warfare

War/Conflict

Finnish Civil War

People
  • Carl Gustav Emil Mannerheim
  • Väinö Tanner
  • Lauri Malmberg
  • Kaarlo A. Nuorteva
Links & References
Tags

Start of the Finnish Civil War

The Finnish Civil War began as tensions escalated between the Red Guards, primarily composed of socialist workers, and the White Guards, supported by conservative factions. The conflict ignited in late January 1918, particularly in southern Finland, including cities like Helsinki. The Red Guards sought to establish a socialist government, while the White Guards aimed to maintain a traditional capitalist state. This clash laid the groundwork for a bitter, violent struggle that lasted several months.

Initiated by the conflict between Red and White Guards.

Marked Finland's struggle post-independence from Russia.

Vast violence and numerous civilian casualties ensued.

Led to the rise of conservative government in Finland.

What Happened?

The Finnish Civil War emerged in the wake of Finland's declaration of independence from Russia. Following the 1917 Russian Revolution, socialist and communist ideologies gained traction among the Finnish working class. The Red Guards, representing the workers, organized to fight for a socialist regime, while the Whites comprised conservative forces, including landowners, businessmen, and former Finnish Army officers, who wanted to preserve their way of life. As political tensions intensified, both factions began to stockpile arms and prepare for conflict. In late January 1918, the Red Guards initiated their offensive, which included an attempt to seize major urban centers such as Helsinki, where the White Guards were fully armed and ready to retaliate. The ensuing battles marked the official outbreak of the war, leading to widespread violence and chaos across the nation.

The conflict quickly escalated, with atrocities committed by both sides as they sought to control territories. The disruption of everyday life was profound, and many civilians were caught in the crossfire. Fighting raged across Finland with key battles such as the Battle of Tampere occurring later in March, showcasing the bloody contention between the factions. By May 1918, with support from Germany, the White Guards ultimately emerged victorious, leading to the establishment of a conservative government. The war's aftermath would shape Finnish society for decades, entrenching class divisions and political divides.

Why Does it Matter?

The Finnish Civil War is significant as it led to the division of Finnish society along ideological lines. The conflict resulted in the temporary establishment of a new government that stifled socialist movements and laid the foundations for a conservative political landscape in Finland. Additionally, the war influenced later events in European history, shaping Finland's identity in the context of broader social and political movements. This conflict serves as a pivotal moment in understanding Finland's journey toward its modern state.

Discover More Historic Events from January 27th

Crime & Law

Shooting at Neve Yaakov Synagogue

January 27th, 2023 2 years ago

A shooting occurred at a synagogue in Neve Yaakov, East Jerusalem, resulting in seven fatalities and three injuries. The attacker targeted worshippers during Sabbath prayers, which escalated tensions in an already volatile region. Eyewitnesses reported chaos as shots rang out, leaving the community devastated. Security forces quickly responded to the incident, marking a tragic escalation in ongoing violence in the area and raising concerns about community safety.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Outrage Following Tyre Nichols Police Incident

January 27th, 2023 2 years ago

Protests erupted across the U.S. after the release of videos showing Memphis police officers brutally attacking Tyre Nichols. The footage revealed officers punching, kicking, and using pepper spray on Nichols after he fled during a traffic stop. He succumbed to his injuries three days later, prompting nationwide demonstrations demanding justice and police reform.

Continue Reading
Science & Technology

Naming Ceremony for Tennessine Element

January 27th, 2017 8 years ago

A ceremony was held in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, to officially name the chemical element tennessine, after the state of Tennessee. Researchers and nuclear physicists gathered to honor the contributions of Tennessee's scientific community in the discovery of this recently confirmed element. The event highlighted the collaborative efforts of various laboratories involved in the element's synthesis, showcasing the importance of scientific research and teamwork in modern chemistry.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Kobanî Canton Declares Autonomy from Syria

January 27th, 2014 11 years ago

On this date, Kobanî Canton, located in Northern Syria, proclaimed its autonomy from the Syrian Arab Republic. This declaration came amidst the ongoing Syrian Civil War, as Kurdish forces sought to establish self-governance. The decision was made by the Democratic Autonomous Administration of Rojava, aiming to create a political entity that represented the Kurdish people and other ethnic communities. This move was significant in the context of the prior conflicts faced by these groups, fostering a sense of identity and political recognition in a volatile region.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Nightclub Fire Claims 242 Lives in Santa Maria

January 27th, 2013 12 years ago

A fire broke out in the Kiss nightclub in Santa Maria, Brazil, killing 242 people. The inferno was ignited by a flare used during a band performance, spreading rapidly due to flammable soundproofing material. Many victims were trapped inside due to overcrowding and chaotic evacuation attempts. This tragedy led to nationwide protests about safety regulations.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Mass Protests Erupt in Yemen's Capital

January 27th, 2011 14 years ago

In Sana'a, Yemen, over 16,000 protestors took to the streets demanding the resignation of President Ali Abdullah Saleh. Inspired by uprisings across the Arab world, crowds chanted for political change and an end to years of corruption and authoritarian rule. Protestors gathered in various locations, culminating in significant demonstrations around the University of Sana'a, showcasing widespread discontent with the government.

Continue Reading