The Treaty of Fredrikshamn: The End of the Finnish War

On September 17, 1809, the Finnish War officially concluded with the signing of the Treaty of Fredrikshamn, resulting in significant territorial changes between Sweden and Russia. This crucial treaty marked the cessation of hostilities that began in February 1808 and fundamentally altered the political landscape of Northern Europe.

Context and Background

The Finnish War was part of a broader conflict tied to the Napoleonic Wars. Tensions arose when Russia, allied with Napoleon Bonaparte through the Treaty of Tilsit in 1807, demanded that Sweden join the Continental System, a blockade against Great Britain. Sweden’s refusal to comply led to a Russian invasion of Finland, then an integral part of the Swedish kingdom.

The conflict was characterized by several key battles and shifting frontlines. Despite some initial successes by Swedish forces, the Russian military gradually gained control over much of Finnish territory.

Key Provisions of the Treaty

The Treaty of Fredrikshamn was signed in the town of Hamina (Fredrikshamn in Swedish), in present-day Finland. The main terms included:

• Cession of Finland: Sweden ceded all of Finland and the Åland Islands to Russia. This new Russian territory was established as the autonomous Grand Duchy of Finland within the Russian Empire.
• Boundaries: The treaty defined new boundaries between Sweden and Russia. The Kemi River became the western border of the newly established Russian territory.
• Military and Economic Stipulations: The treaty required that Finnish fortifications be handed over to Russian forces, with specific instructions on the evacuation of Swedish troops. Additionally, there were provisions relating to the demilitarization of challenging geographic regions like the Åland Islands.

Aftermath and Significance

• Impact on Sweden: The loss of Finland was a severe blow to Sweden, weakening its position in Northern Europe politically and strategically. Following the treaty, Sweden underwent significant internal reforms and shifted focus towards domestic strengthening.
• Finnish Autonomy: For Finland, the treaty led to a new era under Russian rule, granting it a considerable degree of autonomy as the Grand Duchy of Finland. This period fostered a distinct Finnish national identity and laid groundwork for future independence movements.
• Russian Expansion: For Russia, this treaty marked a significant territorial expansion, enhancing its influence in the Baltic region and solidifying its role as a major power in European affairs.

The Treaty of Fredrikshamn was more than a mere territorial shift—it redefined relationships and borders in Northern Europe, with lasting implications that echoed throughout the 19th century and beyond.