The Democratic Way 6: The Parola Lion

Summary

Emperor Alexander II's 1863 visit to Finland is commemorated through the erection of a lion statue, symbolizing his inspection of Finnish troops in their uniform. Senator Johann Wilhelm Snellman's presence marked the submission of the Finnish language decree for the emperor's ratification, advocating for its parity with Swedish in administration and courts. The decree, signed the following day, granted citizens the right to conduct business in their mother tongue, a milestone celebrated 100 years later with a memorial plaque unveiling.

Takeaways

• 🦁 The statue of a lion was erected to commemorate Emperor Alexander II's visit in 1863.
• 👑 The emperor, dressed in the Finnish Guard's uniform, inspected the troops during his visit.
• 📜 Senator Johann Wilhelm Snellman was present and submitted the Finnish language decree for the emperor's ratification.
• 🌐 Snellman highlighted the importance of the Finnish language and education in national consciousness and governance.
• 📝 The decree aimed to give Finnish parity with Swedish in administration and courts within 20 years.
• 🏛 The emperor signed the decree in the governor's house in Hamenlina, following the visit.
• 🏷️ A memorial plaque was unveiled on the 100th anniversary of Finnish language rights.
• 🗣️ The decree allowed citizens and their representatives to conduct daily business in their mother tongue.
• 🏆 The event marked a significant step towards recognizing the Finnish language's role in the country's administration.
• 🎓 The emphasis on education underscored its role in awakening the nation's consciousness.
• 📈 The decree's signing symbolized the beginning of a more inclusive linguistic policy in Finland.

Q & A

Why was a statue of a lion erected to commemorate Emperor Alexander II's visit in 1863?

The lion statue was erected to commemorate Emperor Alexander II's visit on the eve of the 1863 Diet, during which he inspected the troops dressed in the uniform of the Finnish Guard.

Who was Senator Johann Wilhelm Snellman, and what was his role in the events described in the script?

Senator Johann Wilhelm Snellman was a prominent figure present during Emperor Alexander II's visit. He formally submitted the draft Finnish language decree for the emperor's ratification, emphasizing the value of the Finnish language and the importance of education.

What was the significance of the Finnish language decree submitted by Snellman?

The Finnish language decree was significant as it aimed to establish Finnish as an equal language to Swedish in administration and the courts, thereby allowing citizens and their representatives to conduct their daily business in their mother tongue.

How did the decree impact the status of the Finnish language within 20 years?

According to the decree, within 20 years Finnish was to enjoy parity with Swedish as the language of administration and the courts, effectively recognizing it as an official language alongside Swedish.

Where did Emperor Alexander II sign the Finnish language decree?

Emperor Alexander II signed the Finnish language decree the very next day in the Governor's House in Hämeenlinna.

What event took place on the 100th anniversary of Finnish language rights?

On the 100th anniversary of Finnish language rights, a memorial plaque was unveiled to commemorate the occasion.

What was the broader implication of the decree for the Finnish people and their national consciousness?

The decree had a profound implication for the Finnish people, as it not only recognized their language but also played a role in awakening their national consciousness and fostering a sense of identity.

How did the decree influence the daily lives of Finnish citizens?

The decree allowed Finnish citizens and their representatives to conduct their daily business in their native language, which likely enhanced their engagement with governance and administration.

What is the historical context of Emperor Alexander II's visit and the Finnish language decree?

The historical context includes the period of the 1863 Diet in Finland, where the Finnish language and culture were gaining recognition and rights within the Grand Duchy of Finland, which was part of the Russian Empire.

Why was the province of Häme chosen as the location for the lion statue and the events surrounding the Finnish language decree?

The province of Häme was chosen likely due to its historical and cultural significance, as well as its strategic location, making it a fitting place to commemorate the emperor's visit and the advancement of Finnish language rights.