How did Finnish soldiers contribute to Sweden's rise as a great power?

During the period when Sweden rose to become a great power in Europe, Finnish soldiers played a direct role in supporting the Swedish kingdom's military objectives. As Finland was an integral part of the Swedish realm, Finnish conscripts were utilized in the various wars and military campaigns that expanded Sweden's influence, particularly following the Peace of Stolbovo in 1617.12

While these conscripts were instrumental in the military efforts that helped establish Sweden as a leading European power, the political and social significance of Finland within the kingdom began to decline during this era. Despite their essential contribution to the Swedish military machine, the role of Finland itself within the broader Swedish state steadily decreased in importance as the century progressed.12