Information on the Norway Flag

The 19th century was an era of intense political change in Europe. Against this backdrop, Norway began to assert its sovereignty. Nationalistic sentiment was high, and the Norwegians needed a flag to represent their identity. The resulting flag helped to unite the people of Norway, and continues to reflect their ideals today.

Previous Flags

Beginning in 1397, Norway was united with Denmark. The joint polity used the Danish flag, popularly known as the "Dannebrog." This red flag with a white Scandinavian cross continues to represent the modern state of Denmark, and is the oldest national flag still in use. In 1814, Norway declared independence from Denmark. They added a lion to the Dannebrog to create their own flag. However, in 1815, Norway was forced to enter another union, this time with Sweden. Under Swedish rule, Norway's flag was identical to that of Sweden, blue with a yellow Scandinavian cross, with the addition of the Norwegian national colors in the upper hoist corner. Norway finally adopted its own flag in 1821, and full independence in 1905.

History of the Current Flag

The current Norwegian flag was created in 1821, by Parliament member Frederik Meltzer of Bergen. However, this flag did not receive the formal approval of the king. The lion-Dannebrog continued to be used as a merchant flag. In 1844, the current flag was used for the first time in an official capacity. However, it was modified with a combination of Norwegian and Swedish national colors in the upper hoist corner. Upon Norwegian independence in 1905, the original, unmodified flag was officially raised. Norway also uses a variation of this flag for governmental and military purposes. Stylistically, this variant is identical, except for its swallow-tailed shape. Only the government can use the so-called state and war flag, and strict laws outline its use. The standard civil flag, on the other hand, can be flown by virtually anyone.

Symbolism and Appearance

Meltzer decided, in agreement with his fellow politicians, that the new flag should have symbols of the past, while representing the newly independent nation. He took the Danish flag and overlaid the white cross with a blue one, for Sweden. He also appreciated the fact that the flag was red, white and blue--colors that were associated with freedom. The new Norwegian flag followed a precedent set by the flags of the United States, the United Kingdom and the Republic of France.

Flying the Flag

Standard flag etiquette applies to the flying of the Norwegian flag abroad. However, there are particular guidelines that must be adhered to when flying the flag within Norway. Different counties have specified times to raise and lower the flag. The times vary by location and season. Public buildings are required to fly the flag on a number of official holidays. Following these rules when flying the flag shows respect to the flag and the nation it represents.

Cultural Importance

Generally speaking, the flag is a popular symbol among the people of Norway. On holidays, Norwegians often carry the flag and don the national colors to show their national pride. The flag is an icon for Norwegians, in much the same way that "Old Glory" is for Americans, or the "Union Jack" for the British. Norway has had a relatively short history of independence, and the country's flag symbolizes the emphasis its culture places on freedom, unity and national pride.