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 an autonomous Grand Duchy. This period fostered a sense of national identity, culminating in Finland declaring independence in 1917. The country faced challenges, including a civil war in 1918 and conflicts during World War II, but emerged as a stable democracy in the post-war era.