Welcome to the 44th part of our open series of "What do you know about... X?"! You can find an overview of the series
here
Today's topic: The United Kingdoms of Sweden and Norway
The United Kingdoms of Sweden and Norway
The United Kingdoms of Sweden and Norway was the personal union of the kingdoms of Sweden and Norway under one monarch and a common foreign policy that lasted from 1814 until its dissolution in 1905. The union, that was represented by
one of the most awesome flags of all time arose in part as a result of the changes wrought by the Napoleonic Wars. After Russia's annexation of Finland during the
Finish War seemed irreversible, Sweden demanded Norway as a form of compensation for joining the allies against Napoleon. Upon Napoleon's eventual defeat, Sweden sought to make good on its promise, but although at first the Norwegians were not too thrilled at the prospect. However [a quick war](
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swedish%E2%80%93Norwegian_War_(1814)) between Sweden and Norway soon settled the matter in Sweden's favor and the personal union of the two states finally came into force. While the two kingdoms now shared a monarch and a united foreign policy, both states maintained their own constitutions, legislatures, and even currencies. Eventually after a new wave of discontent, the Norwegian Parliament unilaterally declared independence in 1905, which was accepted by Sweden, bringing the union to a close. Nevertheless, the almost century long union left a strong mark on both countries.
So... what do you know about the United Kingdoms of Sweden and Norway?
