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Christian Krohg -17.mai.1893
Happy 17th of May, Norway!
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The 17th of May is Norway’s Constitution Day. It is a celebration on the
anniversary of the declaration of the Norwegian Constitution signed in
1814. Denmark had ruled Norway since the early 1500s but because they
were on the losing side of the Napoleonic wars they traded Norway to
Sweden. Norway took this opportunity to reclaim independence, signing
their constitution on the 17 May to govern their country – however, the
celebrations only lasted 10 days. Sweden was on the winning side of the
Napoleonic wars and used their power to overthrow the Norwegian claim
for independence. Norway was forced to enter into an agreement with
Sweden which is known as The Personal Union of Sweden and Norway. It
wasn’t until 7 June 1905 that the union was dissolved and Norway
regained its independence. (However, Norway’s independence was not
recognised by the Swedish king until October 26 the same year.)
Today the 17th of May is a national holiday and a celebration of
Norwegian traditions and culture. The focus of the day is the Children’s
Parade which takes place in cities, towns and villages all over the
country. via
my little Norway