The Viking Age and the Rise of Norway
The Norwegians first made their mark on world history during the Viking Age, a period defined by Norsemen raiding the coasts of Northwest Europe and navigating the vast reaches of the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. By the late 9th century, Norway was unified under its first king, Harald Fairhair. The era of annual raiding eventually drew to a close around 1030 CE following the introduction of Christianity.
Norway reached the zenith of its medieval power around 1260 CE. During this time, the Norwegian King held the allegiance of all Viking territories, stretching from mainland Europe to the distant shores of Greenland.
The Era of Danish Domination
The 14th century brought devastation in the form of the Black Death, which claimed over one-third of the Norwegian population. In the wake of this crisis, Norway’s political landscape shifted through the influence of Queen Margrete.
As the daughter of the Danish King and wife of the Norwegian King Haakon VI, Margrete navigated a series of royal successions to eventually rule Denmark, Norway, and Sweden simultaneously. This union centered power in Denmark. While Sweden eventually broke away in 1448, Norway remained under Danish control for centuries.
The Path to Independence: The Treaty of Kiel
Danish rule lasted until 1814. Following Denmark’s defeat in the Napoleonic Wars, the Treaty of Kiel forced the nation to cede Norway to Sweden. Amidst this transition, Norwegians seized the moment to assert their sovereignty, drafting a democratic constitution at Eidsvoll on May 17, 1814.
Although Norway was forced into a union with Sweden, the spirit of independence remained. Finally, in June 1905, the Norwegian Parliament voted to dissolve the union. Following peaceful negotiations and a ratified convention, the two nations parted ways. Norway elected Prince Carl of Denmark as their new monarch, who took the name King Haakon VII.
Syttende Mai: A National Celebration
Today, Syttende Mai (May 17) is celebrated as Norway’s National Day, marking the triumph of constitutional government.
Known as Constitution Day, it is a vibrant spring festival where schools close and communities gather for parades in nearly every city and town. In the capital of Oslo, the celebration is marked by the Royal family appearing on the palace balcony to wave to the thousands of citizens gathered below.
