June 9: Autonomy Day in the Åland Islands
Prayer Idea
Pray for the people and government of the Åland Islands.
History Note
The Åland Islands are an archipelago located between the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Bothnia and between Sweden and Finland. In addition to the large island also called Åland, there are thousands of smaller islands, though only about 60 are inhabited.
For several hundred years, Finland was under the control of Sweden. After the Finnish War (1808-1809) between Sweden and Russia, Finland, including the Åland Islands, became part of the Russian Empire. However, nearly the whole population of the Åland Islands spoke Swedish and felt more connected to Sweden.
When Finland gained independence from Russia during World War I, the people of the Åland Islands sought to join Sweden. The League of Nations got involved and determined that the Åland Islands would remain part of Finland while Finland would protect their cultural and political autonomy.
The autonomous government of the Åland Islands met for the first time on June 9, 1922. This date is celebrated as Autonomy Day in the islands. The Åland pancake is a popular treat.
Swedish workers began building Kastelholm in 1380. Though it fell into disrepair by the 1700s, it has been restored and has become a popular tourist attraction. Photo by trabantos / Shutterstock.com.
Learn More
In this video, Aurora Olavsdotter, a resident of the Åland Islands, introduces you to her home.
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