| Some important events in the history of Finland: | ||
| 1155 | The first crusade to Finland by the Swedes. Finland becomes part of the Swedish realm. | |
| 1809 | Finland is handed over to Russia by Sweden and becomes an autonomous Grand Duchy under the Russian emperor. | |
| 1917 | Finland's declaration of independence on December 6. | |
| 1919 | The present constitution is adopted and Finland becomes a republic. | |
| 1939-40 | The winter war between Finland and the Soviet Union. | |
| 1941-44 | Fighting between Finnish and Soviet Forces resumes in the Continuation War. Some territory is ceded to the Soviet Union but Finland is never occupied and preserves its independence and sovereignty. | |
| 1955 | Finland joins the United Nations | |
| 1989 | Finland joins the Council of Europe | |
| 1995 | Finland becomes a member of the European Union | |