The Russification of Finland refers to two major periods (1899–1905 and 1908–1917) when the Russian Empire sought to limit the Grand Duchy of Finland's autonomy and integrate it more fully into the empire. These efforts were part of a broader Russian policy aimed at eradicating the cultural and political autonomy of non-Russian regions within the empire.
Finland had enjoyed significant autonomy since becoming part of the Russian Empire in 1809 following the Finnish War. Tsar Alexander I had guaranteed Finns the right to maintain their laws, religion, and cultural identity. However, by the late 19th century, Russian rulers, particularly Tsar Nicholas II, sought to impose direct imperial control over Finland.
First Period of Russification (1899–1905)
- In 1899, Tsar Nicholas II issued the February Manifesto, asserting Russia's right to override Finland’s autonomy in matters of general empire-wide legislation. This marked the start of Russification policies, including:
- Strengthening the Orthodox Church’s influence in Finland.
- Imposing tighter censorship on Finnish media.
- Incorporating the Finnish army into the Russian Imperial Army, which caused widespread resistance.
These measures provoked fierce opposition in Finland, including massive petition campaigns, strikes, and passive resistance. The assassination of Governor-General Nikolay Bobrikov in 1904, a symbol of the Russification efforts, underscored the growing unrest. Russification policies were temporarily relaxed after the Russian Revolution of 1905, but they resumed in 1908.
Second Period of Russification (1908–1917)
During this period, Finland’s autonomy was further eroded. The Russian government placed military officials in the Finnish Senate, implemented conscription laws, and passed legislation transferring Finnish legislative power to the Russian Duma. These measures, combined with rising Finnish nationalism, led to increased resistance, including the rise of the Jäger Movement, which sought Finnish independence with German support during World War I.
The Russification campaign ended with the collapse of the Russian Empire during the 1917 Russian Revolution. Finland declared independence later that year, on December 6, 1917. The widespread Finnish opposition to Russification played a significant role in the country’s eventual break from Russia and its path toward sovereignty.