The vote for independence in Norway was a culmination of escalating tensions between Norway and Sweden, rooted in the centuries-long union established in 1814. Growing nationalistic movements and a strong desire for autonomy in Norway fostered a push for self-governance. By the turn of the 20th century, feelings of dissatisfaction with Swedish oversight had intensified, particularly regarding Norway’s foreign policy and economic decisions.

The climax of these sentiments emerged in a referendum held in August 1905, where Norwegian citizens were asked whether they wished to dissolve the union. The vote yielded an overwhelming majority in favor of independence, with approximately 99.95% of voters supporting the decision. This remarkable turnout demonstrated not only the people's desire for self-determination but also the effective mobilization of pro-independence sentiment throughout the nation.

Following the referendum, the Norwegian parliament moved quickly to formalize the declaration of independence, setting the stage for the establishment of Norway as a fully sovereign state. This led to a negotiation process with Sweden, which ultimately resolved peacefully, marking a significant transition in Scandinavian political dynamics and allowing Norway to chart its own course in the international arena.