In Russian sources, they are called Yem (Емь) or Yam (Ямь), but the term later disappeared from the Russian language after Finland was incorporated into the Swedish realm.

Tavastia (Finnish: Häme) has been inhabited since the early Stone Age.

The core area of ancient Tavastia was formed around Lake Vanajavesi.

Example of organized cooperation of iron age Tavastians are the hillforts that form a clear line in south-north direction around Hämeenlinna.

[2] Villages were often developed around the fortresses and for example Hattula and Vanaja-Janakkala had their beginning in this way.