The Twin Realms
Exploring the historical union that shaped Northern Europe, from its origins to its dissolution.
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The Union Defined
A Real Union
Denmark–Norway, also known as the Dano-Norwegian Realm or the Twin Realms, was a multinational and multilingual real union that existed from the 16th century until 1814. It comprised the Kingdom of Denmark, the Kingdom of Norway (including its overseas possessions like the Faroe Islands, Iceland, and Greenland), the Duchies of Schleswig and Holstein, and claimed sovereignty over peoples such as the Frisians and Gutes.
Territorial Extent
At its zenith around 1800, the realm covered approximately 2,655,567 km² (1,025,320 sq mi). Its population in 1801 was around 1.86 million people. The primary administrative and economic power emanated from Copenhagen, the capital city, though distinct institutions and legal codes were maintained within Norway.
Governance Structure
Initially a personal union following the Kalmar Union's dissolution, it evolved into a more integrated state. From 1537 to 1660, it functioned as an elective monarchy with some limitations on royal power. Following the introduction of absolutism in 1660, formalized by the King's Law in 1665, it became one of Europe's most stringent absolute monarchies.
Governance and Administration
Administrative Duality
The union utilized two official languages: Danish and German. Separate administrative bodies, the Danish Chancellery (Danske Kancelli) and the German Chancellery (Tyske Kancelli), existed for centuries. While Copenhagen became the central hub after 1660, Norway retained its separate laws and certain institutions, contributing to a complex administrative landscape.
Economic Interdependence
The economies of Denmark and Norway were complementary. Norway's burgeoning industries in shipping, timber, and mining made it the more industrialized part of the union, while Denmark remained largely agricultural. This interdependence fostered significant internal trade, with Denmark supplying agricultural goods and Norway providing raw materials.
Legal and Social Systems
Norway maintained its own legal codes and, unlike Denmark, did not have a serfdom-like institution such as the `Stavnsbånd`. Norwegian farmers were generally freer and more affluent than their Danish counterparts. This contributed to Norway being perceived as a land of opportunity, attracting migration from Denmark.
Overseas Possessions
Global Reach
Throughout its existence, Denmark–Norway maintained various overseas territories. Initially focused on Northern Europe, from the 17th century onwards, it acquired colonies in Africa, the Caribbean, and India. At its peak, the empire spanned vast territories, reflecting a significant global presence.
Territories
Key overseas holdings included the Danish Gold Coast in West Africa, Danish India (comprising settlements like Tranquebar and Serampore, and the Nicobar Islands), and the Danish West Indies in the Caribbean. These colonies were managed through various companies, such as the Danish East India Company and the Danish West India Company.
Colonial Lifespan
The colonial ventures varied in duration. Settlements in India were sold to the United Kingdom in 1845, while the Danish West Indies were sold to the United States in 1917, becoming the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Gold Coast forts were also transferred to the United Kingdom in 1850.
Historical Trajectory
Early Conflicts
The union's history was marked by significant conflicts, particularly with Sweden. The Northern Seven Years' War and the Kalmar War involved territorial disputes and struggles for dominance in the Baltic Sea, including control over the Sound Tolls, which were a major source of income for the Danish crown.
Wars and Treaties
Denmark–Norway participated in the Thirty Years' War, suffering a notable defeat at the Battle of Lutter. Later, the Torstenson War resulted in territorial concessions to Sweden through the Treaty of Brömsebro. The Scanian War was largely inconclusive, while the Napoleonic Wars proved devastating, leading to the cession of Norway to Sweden via the Treaty of Kiel.
Rise of Absolutism
The period saw a consolidation of royal power. The weakening of the Rigsraad (High Council) in Denmark and the abolition of the Norwegian Riksråd paved the way for absolute monarchy in 1660. This shift centralized power in Copenhagen and reinforced the king's authority, impacting the governance of both kingdoms.
Cultural Dynamics
Linguistic Landscape
While Danish served as the dominant official language and the language of the nobility, German also held official status, particularly in Holstein. Norwegian, Icelandic, Faroese, Sami, and Greenlandic were spoken locally, reflecting the diverse linguistic tapestry of the realm.
Religious Uniformity
Following the Protestant Reformation, Lutheranism was established as the official religion throughout Denmark–Norway. The creation of state churches allowed the crown to seize church properties and levy tithes, reinforcing royal authority and contributing to the state's wealth. A period of Pietism under Christian VI also influenced religious practices.
Danish-Norwegian Relations
Despite Danish political dominance, Norway maintained distinct legal systems and institutions. Its industrialized economy, particularly in shipping and timber, complemented Denmark's agricultural base. This economic synergy and Norway's more egalitarian social structure fostered a unique relationship within the union.
Languages of the Realm
Official Languages
Danish was the primary official language, widely used by the nobility and in church services across Denmark, Norway, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands. High German was also officially recognized and used by a minority of the nobility, as well as in church matters within Holstein and parts of Schleswig.
Recognized and Spoken Tongues
Latin served as a common language for foreign relations and was popular among some nobles. Norwegian, while not officially recognized, was the primary spoken language in Norway. Icelandic, Faroese, Sami, Greenlandic, and North Frisian were also spoken in their respective regions, contributing to the realm's linguistic diversity.
Faith and State
Lutheran Dominance
The Protestant Reformation firmly established Lutheranism as the state religion. This transition allowed the crown to seize church properties and levy tithes, significantly bolstering royal finances and contributing to the consolidation of absolute monarchy. The Church of Denmark and the Church of Norway were founded during this era.
Pietist Influence
During the reign of Christian VI (1735–1746), Pietism exerted a notable influence, leading to the implementation of new laws and regulations. Though Pietism did not become a lasting established religious grouping, its impact was felt, with policies like the Holiday Peace Act continuing to affect citizens.
Enduring Impact
Historical Perspectives
While the union was generally viewed favorably at the time of its dissolution, 19th-century Norwegian writers sometimes disparaged it as a "400-year night." Modern historical research suggests this view is a myth, highlighting that the Norwegian economy thrived, and Norway enjoyed significant autonomy and representation within the realm.
Nuanced Understanding
Historians emphasize that Norway was a distinct state with its own institutions and legal system, governed by a local elite. Norwegians were well-represented in the administration, military, and business sectors of the union. Economically, Norway benefited from trade relations and military security provided by the combined strength of Denmark–Norway.
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References
References
- Danish kings ruled the county, in a personal union from 1667â1773
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