Finnish Canadians
Finnish Canadians are Canadian citizens of Finnish ancestry or Finns who emigrated to and reside in Canada. In 2016, 143,645 Canadians claimed Finnish ancestry. Finns started coming to Canada in the early 1880s, and in much larger numbers in the early 20th century and well into the mid-20th century. Finnish immigration to Canada was often a direct result of economic depressions and wars, or in the aftermath of major conflicts like the Finnish Civil War. Canada was often chosen as a final destination because of the similarity in climate and natural conditions, while employment in logging or homesteading attracted landless farmers in the early 20th century. Migratory movements of Finns between Canada and the United States was very common as well.
Total population | |
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143,645 0.4% of the Canadian population | |
Regions with significant populations | |
| |
Ontario | 74,505 |
British Columbia | 31,610 |
Alberta | 16,285 |
Languages | |
Religion | |
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Related ethnic groups | |
Finnish Americans, Estonian Canadians, Estonian Americans |
In the early 20th century, newly arrived Finnish immigrants to Canada quickly became involved in political organizations, churches, athletic clubs and other forms of associational life. Halls and co-operatives were often erected in communities with sizable Finnish populations. "Finnish Canadians" pioneered efforts to establish co-operatives in several Canadian cities. Canada's largest co-operative, the Consumers' Co-operative Society, was started by Finns.
The 2011 Census recorded 136,215 Canadians who claimed Finnish ancestry, an increase compared to the 2006 Census.