The Aaland Islands Dispute, 1921

What was the Aaland Islands dispute?

The League of Nations got involved in a dispute between Finland and Sweden in 1921 over who controlled the Aaland Islands.

Where are the Aaland Islands?

The Aaland Islands are located between Finland and Sweden, in the Baltic Sea.

Who was involved in the dispute over the Aaland Islands?

Finland and Sweden disagreed over who controlled the Aaland Islands.

Why was there a dispute between Sweden and Finland over the Aaland islands?

The peace settlement at the end of the war changed the geography of Europe and affected the borders of many countries. Both Sweden and Finland claimed the Aaland Islands. Historically, the islands were Finnish but the population wanted to be Swedish.

How did the League react to the dispute over the Aaland Islands?

The countries asked the League to investigate. It ruled that the islands should remain Finnish, but as a safeguard no military personnel or arms could be located there.

What was the result of the dispute over the Aaland Islands?

Both sides accepted the decision.

What was significant about the dispute between Sweden and Finland over the Aaland Islands?

The dispute over the Aaland Islands is a significant case study of success for the League of Nations. Both nations accepted the authority of the League and its decision.