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Dissolution of Union between Norway and Sweden – June 7, 2024

The Dissolution of Union between Norway and Sweden is observed yearly on June 7. As the name implies, the day commemorates the separation of Norway and Sweden as unified kingdoms under a common monarch and common foreign policy. Norway’s parliament, the Storting, moved the motion for the dissolution. This resulted in Norway receiving what they’ve always wanted, which was to govern themselves after years of being subject to Sweden’s Foreign policies following the aftermath of a war between both nations. The day is one of remembrance of this achievement in their history and seeks to remind every Norwegian living locally or overseas about this.

History of Dissolution of Union between Norway and Sweden

Sweden and Norway engaged in a brief war, which ended in 1814, with the Swedes emerging as victors. After losing the war, Norway was forced into a union with Sweden. The Swedes gave Norway a sense of independence by allowing them to maintain their parliament, their army, and their judiciary. They, however, had to submit to the monarch in Sweden and had a single foreign policy that was run by the Swedish Ministry of Affairs.

With a forced union comes differences, and it showed in the union of Sweden and Norway. Norway’s economy was more dependent on trading and so they preferred lower tariffs, while Sweden wished to have higher duties. On the international front, Norway had stronger ties with England and some other countries outside Europe, while Sweden’s relations were focused on Germany. Politically, Norway gradually became more liberal, thereby limiting the powers of the king, while it wasn’t the case in Sweden.

Due to all these disparities, the Norwegian parliament moved for the separation of Norway from Sweden by passing a law. King Oscar II refused to accept the new law and in response, the Norwegian government resigned. As King Oscar II couldn’t form an alternative government, the Norwegian government moved for the ​​dissolution of the union with Sweden under one king. The king of Norway moved for the Norwegian people to vote on the dissolution, which they had anticipated and prepared for, by scheduling a plebiscite. The dissolution was passed in 1905 as a result of 99.95% of the vote being in favor of it.

Dissolution of Union between Norway and Sweden timeline

1814
The Sweden-Norway War Ends

The war between Sweden and Norway ends.

1829
Swedish Viceroys Preside Over the Norwegian Government

Swedish Viceroys preside over Norway until 1829.

1856
Norwegian Viceroys Preside Over the Norwegian Government

Norwegian Viceroys preside over Norway until 1856.

1905
Union Dissolution

The union between Norway and Sweden is dissolved.

Dissolution of Union between Norway and Sweden FAQs

What is the Kalmar Union?

The Kalmar Union was a union in Scandinavia to join Denmark, Sweden, and Norway under a single monarch.

When did the Kalmar Union end?

The Kalmar Union ended in 1523.

What language did Vikings speak?

The language of the Vikings was Old Norse.

How to Observe Dissolution of Union between Norway and Sweden

  1. Visit Norway

    Celebrate the day by visiting Norway. You will not only get to experience the country’s wonderful scenery, but you’ll also be contributing to their economy.

  2. Read up on the history

    Read up more on the history of this day. As Sweden and Norway have a rich history, it is sure to be interesting.

  3. Spread awareness

    Celebrate the day by spreading awareness about it. A simple social media post is a good start.

5 Interesting Facts About Norway

  1. Europe’s northernmost point is housed in Norway

    The northernmost point in Europe, North Cape, is found in Norway.

  2. The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded in Norway

    It is not just awarded in Norway, the presiding committee is Norwegian as well.

  3. The founding nations of the U.N.

    Norway is one of the founding nations of the U.N. and the U.N.’s first Secretary-General, Trygve Lie, was Norwegian.

  4. The longest road tunnel is in Norway

    At just over 15 miles in length, the Lærdal Tunnel is the longest in the world.

  5. Norway has a land border with Russia

    There is only one road linking Norway and Russia, and it is 120 miles long.

Why Dissolution of Union between Norway and Sweden is Important

  1. It reminds us to stand up for what we want

    The day shows us what can be achieved by being courageous. This is inspirational to others.

  2. It sheds a light on history

    It gives people a chance to learn about the rich history of Sweden and Norway. And when you’re learning, you’re growing.

  3. It promotes tourism in both nations

    The day entices people to want to know more about both nations by visiting them. This helps boost their economies through tourism.

Dissolution of Union between Norway and Sweden dates

YearDateDay
2024June 7Friday
2025June 7Saturday
2026June 7Sunday
2027June 7Monday
2028June 7Wednesday

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