Until the mid 20th century Finland was amongst the poorest countries in Europe. Regardless of the industrial plants built in the early 19th century, most people's life was defined by the agriculture. Even these days the manufacturing industry is their primary source of income. The industrializations have only begun after the 2nd world war, owing to the massive compensation which Finland had to pay to the Soviet Union. In 20 years they built a diverse and competitive industry, most of all in the electronics, chemical, paper and iron industry. Today Finland is one of Europe's richest countries.