 The History
In the 14th century Norway, Sweden, and Denmark were members of the Union of Kalmar. In 1459, Sweden broke away from the Union and as a result Norway became closely linked to Denmark.
During the 18th century, Danish control over Norway relaxed and at the end of the Napoleonic Wars, the Treaty of Kiel transferred Norway to Sweden. Norwegians refused to accept the change, as they wanted independence.
The Swedish army invaded Norway, but thankfully an agreement was reached. On the 17th May 1814, the Norwegian constitution was written at Eidsvold, Norway. Norwegians were allowed to retain their constitution on condition that the Swedish king was to remain king of Norway.
In 1905 the union with Sweden peacefully dissolved, and the Danish prince Carl (Haakon VII) was invited by the Norwegian people to become king. of Norway.
A few years after 1814, people
started private celebrations on 17th May.
Some wanted it to be an official holiday.
Henrik Wergeland, a famous Norwegian poet
organised the day as a holiday
in several places in Norway. Later, Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson continued
Wergeland's work. In 1870 he organized
the first children's parade, which remains
the most important event on 17th May.
On the morning of May 17th, Norwegian flags
are hoisted all over the country. Outside
some public buildings, large flags are
hoisted whilst a band plays the national
anthem. Everyone dresses up their best clothes.
Those who have one, often wear a bunad,
a Norwegian national costume. Women
especially wear these costumes, but some
men wear them as well.
The morning parade is called Barnetoget,
and this is where all the school children
of Oslo parade through the city. The
schools' band play, and the children sing
national songs. In Oslo the children greet the Royal Family at the
Palace Balcony. This is one of the favorite
traditions of the May 17th celebrations
in capital.
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