Finland was first settled in the 1100s-1200s, though the original settlers are unknown. It declared independence from Russia in 1917 after being under Russian rule. Finland has a cold climate with an average annual temperature of 41F and precipitation of 25 inches. It has widespread forests but poor soil and lacks natural resources like oil, gas and coal. Most people live in apartments in cities or single family homes in rural areas. Manufacturing is an important part of Finland's economy and includes chemicals, machinery, metals, paper products and more.