1. Start with General Resources

Begin your research by exploring general resources that provide an overview of Finland's history during World War II. These resources may include books, articles, and websites specifically dedicated to the topic. Some suggestions include:

- "A Frozen Hell: The Russo-Finnish Winter War of 1939-1940" by William R. Trotter

- "Finland at War: The Continuation and Lapland Wars 1941-45" by Vesa Nenye, et al.

- "Finland's War of Choice: The Troubled German-Finnish Alliance in World War II" by Henrik Lunde

2. Examine Primary Sources

Primary sources such as diaries, letters, and official documents provide firsthand accounts and valuable insights into Finland's experiences during World War II. Look for primary sources that document Finland's political climate, military events, and civilian life. Some examples include:

- The Finnish Defense Forces' official website (puolustusvoimat.fi) provides a collection of wartime documents and photographs

- The National Archives of Finland (kansallisarkisto.fi) holds various archival materials that shed light on Finland's history during the war

- Personal memoirs and interviews of war veterans, which can often be found in books or oral history collections

3. Study the Winter War

The Winter War, fought between Finland and the Soviet Union from November 1939 to March 1940, was a significant event in Finland's World War II history. Some key aspects to explore include:

- The reasons behind the Soviet Union's invasion of Finland

- Finland's initial resistance and the defensive tactics employed during the war

- The overall impact and consequences of the Winter War on Finland's subsequent actions in World War II

4. Analyze Finland's Relations with Germany and the Continuation War

During the Continuation War (1941-1944), Finland aligned itself with Nazi Germany against the Soviet Union. Investigate Finland's motivations, political considerations, and military operations during this period. Key points to explore may include:

- The objectives and strategies of the Finnish Army alongside the German forces on the Eastern Front

- The effects of Finland's alliance with Germany on its international relations and reputation

- The ongoing diplomatic efforts to maintain some degree of independence while cooperating with Germany

5. Evaluate the Lapland War and Finland's Post-WWII Period

After the Moscow Armistice in 1944, Finland fought against German forces in the Lapland War. Understand the reasons behind this conflict and its significance in Finland's post-World War II history. Consider these aspects:

- The German Army's retreat and Finland's military actions to reclaim its territory

- The consequences of the war on Finland's reconstruction and transition to peacetime

- Finland's overall relationship with the Allied powers and its positioning during the early Cold War era