The Finnish civil war was fought between January and May 1918 and is often referred to as the most brutal conflict in northern Europe in the modern era. In a cruel confrontation between compatriots, neighbour often faced neighbour in a battle between conservative and socialist forces that rapidly got out of control. Almost 37,000 people died as a result of the conflict, as a result of acts of war, terror, random executions and a high mortality rate in the prison camps.

There were many people outside Finland who involved themselves, and Norway sent two ‘ambulances’ – field hospitals – from The Red Cross and the Norwegian Women’s Care and Services Organisation. No one anticipated the bloodbath they were about to witness. A number of the Norwegians who were in Finland wrote down what they had experienced, and eye-witness portrayals bring the reader close to the events themselves.

The Finnish civil war is now an almost unknown chapter to many people. In Finland it is still both a controversial and emotionally charged subject, while in Norway it was to have a considerable impact on the labour movement. With this book, the journalist and writer Morten Jentoft reveals the story of the war.

‘ ... a well-executed and important piece of work.’ 5 out of 6 stars, Stavanger Aftenblad

‘It is important for Jentoft, with his wide-ranging knowledge, to have documented this part of Finnish history.’Aftenposten

‘Jentoft has carried out an impressive piece of journalism.’ Klassekampen

‘Morten Jentoft has done a fine job ... well and discerningly told.’ 5 out of six stars, Dagbladet

Morten Jentoft

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