Norwegian Constitution Signed, Crown Prince Elected King

May 17th, 1814

May 17th, 1814

Norwegian Constitution Signed, Crown Prince Elected King
How Long Ago?

210 years, 9 months, 26 days ago

Location

Eidsvoll, Norway

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Christian Frederick of Denmark
  • Wergeland
  • Søndergard
  • Grieg
Links & References
Tags

Norwegian Constitution Signed, Crown Prince Elected King

The Constitution of Norway was signed by the Norwegian Constituent Assembly, establishing Norway as an independent state. Crown Prince Christian Frederick of Denmark was elected as the new King of Norway, marking the beginning of a constitutional monarchy. The assembly convened at Eidsvoll and aimed to create a nation-state following the Napoleonic Wars, driven by a desire for independence and self-governance.

Norway's first constitution emphasized democracy.

Crown Prince Christian Frederick was elected king.

The assembly sought independence from Sweden.

Eidsvoll became symbolic of Norwegian sovereignty.

What Happened?

The Norwegian Constituent Assembly met at Eidsvoll to draft and sign a new constitution, laying the groundwork for Norway's governance after centuries of Danish rule. Participants sought to assert their independence following the tumultuous effects of the Napoleonic Wars, particularly the weakening of Denmark which had forced Norway into a union with Sweden. The assembly was comprised of representatives from various regions of Norway, reflecting a wide spectrum of political opinions and aspirations. Among the key figures was Crown Prince Christian Frederick of Denmark, who championed Norway's independence and was a significant advocate for democratic governance.

Upon the constitution's adoption, which featured progressive ideas for its time including civil liberties and the separation of powers, Christian Frederick was elected the King of Norway, solidifying his position in this new political structure. This election was a watershed moment for Norway, as it highlighted the aspirations of Norwegians for a sovereign state while marked by a peaceful transition of power rather than military conflict.

However, the peace was short-lived as international dynamics soon intervened. In the Treaty of Kiel later that same year, Norway was ceded to Sweden, leading to a subsequent union which significantly altered the course of Norwegian governance. Nonetheless, the principles laid out in the constitution would endure and influence Norway’s future political landscape.

Why Does it Matter?

The signing of the Norwegian Constitution and the election of Crown Prince Christian Frederick as King are significant because they marked Norway's assertion of independence and self-determination during a period of European upheaval. This event was pivotal in establishing Norway's identity and resultingly provided a framework for future democratic governance. The principles of the constitution continued to shape Norwegian political thought and practices, making it relevant even in modern discussions around governance and civil rights.

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