History
Norwegian history spans over a thousand years. The Viking Age (approx. 793–1066) saw Norse explorers, traders, and settlers travel across Europe and the North Atlantic. Christianity was introduced around the year 1000 under King Olav Haraldsson (later Saint Olav). Norway then entered unions with Denmark (1380–1814) and later Sweden (1814–1905).
1814 is a pivotal year in Norwegian history. On 17 May 1814, the Norwegian Constitution was signed at Eidsvoll, making it one of the oldest written constitutions still in use. However, Norway was forced into a union with Sweden. Full independence came peacefully in 1905, when the union was dissolved and Prince Carl of Denmark became King Haakon VII.
The 20th century brought major changes. Norway was occupied by Nazi Germany during World War II (1940–1945). After the war, the country rebuilt and developed its welfare state. The discovery of oil in the North Sea in 1969 transformed Norway into one of the wealthiest nations in the world. The Government Pension Fund Global (‘the Oil Fund’) is now the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund.
Key facts
- Viking Age: approximately 793–1066
- Christianity introduced around year 1000
- Union with Denmark: 1380–1814
- Constitution signed at Eidsvoll on 17 May 1814
- Union with Sweden: 1814–1905; full independence in 1905
- Nazi German occupation: 1940–1945
- Oil discovered in the North Sea in 1969
- The Oil Fund is the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund
Sample questions
Test your knowledge with these sample questions from the History topic.
When was the Norwegian Constitution signed?
17 May 1814
7 June 1905
8 May 1945
Explanation: The Norwegian Constitution was signed at Eidsvoll on 17 May 1814. This date is celebrated as Norway’s national day (Grunnlovsdagen).
When did Norway gain full independence from Sweden?
1814
1905
1945
Explanation: Norway gained full independence from Sweden in 1905 when the union was peacefully dissolved. Prince Carl of Denmark became King Haakon VII.
What was discovered in the North Sea in 1969 that transformed Norway’s economy?
Gold
Oil
Natural gas only
Explanation: The discovery of oil in the North Sea in 1969 transformed Norway from a modest fishing and shipping nation into one of the world’s wealthiest countries.
Related topics
Practice History questions
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