Learn everything there is to know about Finnish history, in just 200 pages.

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Product Description

This is a second edition of the most successful study of Finland in the English language. It presents the reader - whether tourist, student, specialist, or business person - with a readable and authoritative introduction to the Finns and the present position of their country in the modern world. A Short History of Finland traces the historical development of the country from its settlement by the Finns in the first millennium AD to the present time, exploring Finland’s earlier connection with Sweden, the complex relationship with Russia which has dominated Finnish history in the last two centuries, and the post-war achievements of the second republic. This second edition has been revised and updated by Emeritus Professor A. F. Upton, a leading scholar of Scandinavian history, and discusses the impact of the break-up of the Soviet Union and brings events up to Finland’s admission to the European Union in 1995.

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Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #442349 in Books
• Published on: 1998-10-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 224 pages

Review
'A very readable and informative account of Finland's past … an excellent starting point for general readers.' History and Society

'A very readable and informative account of Finland's past… an excellent starting point for general readers.' Rough Guide to Finland

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Customer Reviews

A fine book on a fine country
It's not easy to find books on the history of Finland in English. This is one of the few I've seen. I've been obsessed with Finland for about 4 years, and there's no end in sight. The author goes all the way back to pre-history to explain the peculiarities and special character of the Finns. He clearly sets forth the complex history of Finland in relation to its bigger and pushier neighbours, Sweden and Russia, and gives a good account of the Civil War, the Winter War, and independence. Not many books to choose from on this subject, but this is a good one.

Very Good
I really enjoyed this book. Mr.Singleton had a pleasing writing style which helps to illuminate an interesting topic.

I found the chapters on Finland's relationship with Sweden very interesting in that they gave concrete form to something I was only obliquely aware of. Another fascinating area was Finland's position during the Cold War (though sadly this part was all too brief).

Mr.Singleton was obviously much in love with Finland, but I wonder if this perhaps coloured the objectivity of his views? He dismisses the concept of "Finlandization" during the Cold War as a product of those who misunderstand the real politik of Finland's position. In the pages following, however, he contradicts his own assertion with statements like "the Soviet Union (had) an informal veto power which extended into (Finland's) domestic politics" [page 144]. This is, however, a small point and provokes one's own thoughts rather than detracting from the enjoyment of the book.

As another reviewer said it would have been nice to see what (the now sadly deceased) Mr.Singleton could have done with another 250 pages. I think this book would be excellent for students of things Nordic, those with an interest in Finland, or just the general reader wanting to know more about the country.

Recommended.