The paper considers historical and geographical preconditions for establishment of Finnish identity on the basis of cultural analysis. It is shown that in different historical periods, establishment of Finnish identity developed in a number of ways. When Finland merged in the Russian Empire, the main focus was on establishing language and cultural identity. Aft er declaring independence, most attention was paid to economic and political aspects, which form Finnish identity. Establishment of Finnish identity in the 20th century can be divided into seven periods. In the modern context the main focus is on the so-called "Finnish model of information society", which provides for the existing features of Finnish ethnic identity. The References include 12 items. Refs 12.