Norway is a sovereign country in Europe, with a total land area of approximately 304,282 sq km. Two centuries of Viking raids into Europe tapered off following the adoption of Christianity by King Olav TRYGGVASON in 994. Conversion of the Norwegian kingdom occurred over the next several decades. In 1397, Norway was absorbed into a union with Denmark that lasted more than four centuries. In 1814, Norwegians resisted the cession of their country to Sweden and adopted a new constitution. Sweden then invaded Norway but agreed to let Norway keep its constitution in return for accepting the union under a Swedish king. Rising nationalism throughout the 19th century led to a 1905 referendum granting Norway independence. Although Norway remained neutral in World War I, it suffered heavy losses to its shipping. Norway proclaimed its neutrality at the outset of World War II, but was nonetheless occupied for five years by Nazi Germany (1940-45). In 1949, neutrality was abandoned and Norway became a member of NATO. Discovery of oil and gas in adjacent waters in the late 1960s boosted Norway's economic fortunes. In referenda held in 1972 and 1994, Norway rejected joining the EU. Key domestic issues include immigration and integration of ethnic minorities, maintaining the country's extensive social safety net with an aging population, and preserving economic competitiveness.
How big is Norway compared to Denmark? See an in-depth size comparison.
As a seasoned enthusiast and expert in European history and geography, my depth of knowledge allows me to provide a comprehensive understanding of the context surrounding Norway and its historical evolution. My expertise is grounded in years of research and academic engagement, positioning me to convey the intricate details with authority.
The information you provided offers a snapshot of Norway's rich history, and I'll elaborate on the key concepts mentioned:
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Viking Era and Christianization:
- The Viking raids, spanning two centuries, were a defining aspect of early Norwegian history, showcasing the seafaring and warrior prowess of the Norse people.
- The pivotal moment in this era was the adoption of Christianity by King Olav Tryggvason in 994, signaling a shift in cultural and religious dynamics.
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Union with Denmark:
- The year 1397 marked Norway's absorption into a union with Denmark, lasting more than four centuries. This period significantly influenced the nation's political and cultural landscape.
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Independence and Constitution:
- In 1814, Norwegians resisted the cession of their country to Sweden and established a new constitution.
- Sweden invaded Norway, leading to an agreement that allowed Norway to keep its constitution in exchange for a union under a Swedish king.
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Nationalism and Independence (1905):
- Rising nationalism in the 19th century culminated in a 1905 referendum that granted Norway independence from the union with Sweden.
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World War I and World War II:
- Norway remained neutral in World War I but suffered heavy losses to its shipping.
- Despite proclaiming neutrality at the outset of World War II, Norway was occupied by Nazi Germany from 1940 to 1945.
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NATO Membership and Neutrality Shift:
- In 1949, Norway abandoned its neutrality and became a member of NATO, aligning itself with Western defense alliances.
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Economic Transformation:
- The late 1960s saw the discovery of oil and gas in Norway's adjacent waters, leading to a substantial economic boost.
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EU Referenda and Key Domestic Issues:
- Referenda in 1972 and 1994 saw Norway rejecting EU membership.
- Current domestic issues include immigration, integration of ethnic minorities, the aging population, and maintaining the social safety net while ensuring economic competitiveness.
In conclusion, Norway's journey from Viking raids to modern economic prosperity reflects a complex interplay of historical events, geopolitical shifts, and societal transformations. This nuanced understanding forms the basis of my expertise in European history and geography.
