Norway
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 lasted 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.
Languages & Population
Approximate Population: 4,627,926 (July 2007 est.)
Nationality (Noun): Norwegian(s)
Nationality (Adjective): Norwegian
Official Language(s): Norwegian
Major Languages Spoken: Finnish, Norwegian, Swedish
Country Facts
Country Name (long form): Kingdom of Norway
Country Name (short form): Norway
Country Name (local long form): Kongeriket Norge
Country Name (local short form): Norge
Name of Capital: Oslo
UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)
Countries Near by, and Bordering Norway: Sweden, Russia, Faroe Islands, Finland
Land Area: 307442 sq km
Water Area: 16360 sq km
Comparative Area: slightly larger than New Mexico
Total Land Boundry: 2,542 km
Coastline: 25,148 km
National Holiday: Constitution Day, 17 May (1814)
International Phone Code: 47
Currency Code: US dollar (USD)
Internet Country Code: .mp
US Embassy Location: Henrik Ibsens gate 48, 0244 Oslo; note - the embassy will move to Huseby in the near future
US Embassy Mailing Address: PSC 69, Box 1000, APO AE 09707
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