Finnish history begins with the settlement of the region by various tribes around 8500 BC. Over the centuries, the area was influenced by neighboring cultures, particularly the Swedes and Russians. In the late Middle Ages, Finland became part of the Kingdom of Sweden, which lasted for several centuries. In 1809, Finland was ceded to Russia and became the Grand Duchy of Finland, enjoying a degree of autonomy. Finland declared independence in 1917 during the turmoil of World War I. The country faced a civil war in 1918 but eventually established a stable government and became a member of the European Union in 1995.