CONTINUATION WAR Meaning and
Definition
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The Continuation War refers to a military conflict that occurred between Finland and the Soviet Union during World War II. Lasting from June 1941 to September 1944, it was deemed as a continuation of the Winter War, a previous conflict between the two nations. The Continuation War erupted in the aftermath of Operation Barbarossa when Nazi Germany invaded the Soviet Union. Encouraged by German successes, Finland sought to reclaim territories that were lost to the Soviets during the Winter War.
In this conflict, Finland initially fought alongside Germany as a co-belligerent against the Soviet Union, with hopes of regaining lost territories and securing its borders. The Finnish forces, which were better prepared and equipped this time, launched offensives into Soviet Karelia and managed to make some territorial gains. However, as the war progressed, Finland became increasingly disillusioned with its German ally due to their differing objectives. In 1944, Finland concluded a separate armistice with the Soviet Union and eventually switched sides, joining the fight against Germany.
The Continuation War resulted in heavy casualties, economic strain, and territorial changes for Finland. It significantly altered the country's political landscape and led to the resignation of its leader, Risto Ryti, as Finland sought a separate peace agreement with the Soviet Union. The war ended with the signing of the Moscow Armistice in September 1944, which included territorial concessions, substantial reparations, and political restrictions imposed on Finland. Although Finland managed to maintain its independence, the Continuation War had a profound impact on the nation's history and its relationship with the Soviet Union.
Etymology of CONTINUATION WAR
The term "Continuation War" refers to the conflict that took place between Finland and the Soviet Union from 1941 to 1944 during World War II. The etymology of the term can be understood by analyzing its components: "continuation" and "war".
1. Continuation: The term "continuation" in this context signifies the continuation of a previous conflict. It refers to the fact that the Continuation War was an extension of the Winter War (1939-1940) between Finland and the Soviet Union.
2. War: This word represents the armed conflict itself, with its conventional meaning as a state of open, organized, and often prolonged armed conflict between nations or states.
Therefore, the term "Continuation War" implies the continuation and resumption of hostilities after a temporary ceasefire or pause, specifically referring to the conflict between Finland and the Soviet Union during World War II.
