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 was to last for 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. The current focus is on containing spending on the extensive welfare system and planning for the time when petroleum reserves are depleted. In referenda held in 1972 and 1994, Norway rejected joining the EU. To be updated
May 1st 2008Europe » Norway » Østlandet Ja, så er tiden kommet for etterord.
Jeg satt på do i sted, og tenkte: "Hmm.... jeg savner den asiatiske bidét-dusjen ved siden av toalettet. Minn meg på at jeg vil ha en sånn bidét-dusj når jeg se ... [full story]
April 28th 2008Europe » Norway I am so moved by the generous donations to the fundraiser page www.justgiving.com/cazandsteve, we are up to nearly £600 already!! Again, particularly touching are those donations made my old friends a ... [full story]
May 17th 2006Europe » Norway » Østlandet » Oslo Over 2005 and 2006, I was fortunate enough to be working in Paris and Amsterdam. Whilst building relationships with my French and Dutch colleagues, I was also able to work closely with others - Swedes ... 11 photos[full story]
April 23rd 2008Europe » Norway We are up to just over £400 raised so far, this is wonderful in such a short time. We are so encouraged that our friends and family are so generous and supportive.
Our Dad has even been in touch wi ... [full story]
April 18th 2008Europe » Norway » Vestlandet » Stavanger Hi again,
I was really excited to discover Norway for the first time in Stavanger.
I had a transit in Amsterdam and was amazed by this beautiful airport, the nicest I have ever seen since I travel ... 44 photos[full story]
March 27th 2008Europe » Norway » Østlandet » Oslo Back “home” in Oslo for a little over a week. Tommy was waiting in the arrival lounge, buying himself a coffee when I came through. It was really good to see him. He had his car just ou ... 11 photos[full story]
March 28th 2008Europe » Norway » Østlandet » Lillehammer Hello all!
I know, I know it has been FOREVER since I have written. I kinda forgot about this travel blog.
Well I have survived spring break! My first destination was Copenhagen. There were five ... [full story]