Translated for the first time in English, Finland and Socialism is Alexandra Kollontai’s vivid portrayal of the early years of the socialist movement in Finland. Translated and introduced by Cathy Porter, Kollontai’s writings on Finland are first-hand reportage and political analysis of workers organising against Tsarist autocracy and capitalist oppression. Originally published in 1906, Finland and Socialism was banned the following year and a warrant was issued for Kollontai’s arrest.

Kollontai’s writings give an overview of the early years of socialist history in Finland, in which she played an active role, and provide an almost day-to-day account of the 1905 General Strike, which transformed and democratised the Finnish political landscape.  It portrays workers’ solidarity, the formation of the Red Guards, the emergence of new proletarian subjectivities and the bourgeoisie’s betrayal of the democratic political process.

In her lengthy introduction, Porter contextualises Kollontai’s writings on Finland by discussing her style and her translation of Marxist terminology into the political struggle. She also provides valuable details about the background to the initial publication of the Finland and Socialism booklet.

Designed by Ott Kagovere, the book is richly illustrated with archival images depicting the early years of workers movements in Finland. 

The translation and publication of Finland and Socialism is supported by the Kone Foundation, and the project will continue with the publication of Kollontai’s other writings on Finland, including The Life of the Finnish Workers from 1903.