Means of living and population trends

In the 18th century people still made their living from agriculture and abundant hunting areas and fishing waters. Animal husbandry was still quite primitive so tar burning became an important means of living in the late 18th century and remained so until the early 20th century.

The first industrial companies were set up in Kajaani in the early 20th century, thanks to improved transport connections brought about by the railway line that was extended to Kajaani1904. As a provincial centre Kajaani also housed state offices and educational institutions. The post-war economic upswing period was reflected in Kajaani and Kainuu in the form of building projects, strong development and population growth. The trend continued until the economic crises of the 1960's and 1970's that forced masses of people to move to Southern Finland and Sweden. In just a decade Kainuu's population fell by 10,000 persons. All in all almost 37,000 people left Kainuu during a period of 100 years.

Kajaani rural municipality and the town of Kajaani were consolidated in 1977.

Trends in the population of Kajaani (figures for the town and the former rural municipality):