Commissars. Svinhufvud followed their advice, as Finland wanted Germany's recognition as soon as possible. On 18 December (31 December N.S.), the Soviet Russian government issued a decree recognizing Finland's independence, and on 22 December (4 January 1918 N.S.) it was approved by the highest Soviet executive body, the All-Russian Central Executive Committee (VTsIK). This is how the meeting is told in Svinhufvud's biography, Svinhufvud ja itsenäisyyssenaatti written by Erkki Räikkönen: The independence of Finland was recognized after that by Germany, Sweden, and France on 4 January 1918, by Norway and Denmark on 10 January, and by Austria-Hungary on 13 January. Organizing a new country Hardship burdened the common people, resulting in polarization, and soon ignited the Civil War. The declaration actually addresses this problem: The Government will approach foreign powers to seek the recognition of our political independence. All the complications, famine and unemployment ensuing from the present external isolation make it urgent for the Government to tie direct contacts with foreign powers without delay. Urgent, concrete assistance in the form of necessities for living and industry is our only rescue from imminent famine and industrial standstill. Many of the necessary ministries and authorities had been founded during years of autonomy, and they continued their activities perhaps after a change of name. The Bank of Finland had the same position as before. As pilotage has military significance, the National pilot office had been subjected to russification. The National Board of Navigation, later called the Finnish Maritime Administration, was founded 15 December 1917, and piloting became its responsibility. The attempt to establish a monarchy in Finland failed and in 1919 Kaarlo Juho Ståhlberg became the first president. The first parliamentary elections were held in March 1919. List of recognition National symbols From several suggestions, the parliament selected a blue and white flag, which was flown over the house of parliament on 28 May 1918. The coat of arms of Finland, with a crowned lion on a red field had existed since Swedish rule. Selection of the national anthem divided social classes. The conservatives preferred "Maamme" by Runeberg and Pacius, while the working class was singing "La Marseillaise" and "The Internationale". After the Whites won the Finnish Civil War, "Maamme" was chosen. Finland's Independence Day was declared to be 6 December and a national holiday. The bill to make Finland a republic was passed by the Diet in 1919. Commemoration The 90th