Book: Norway and the Union with Sweden

Introduction
"Norway and the Union with Sweden" is a book written in 1905 by Fridtjof Nansen, a popular Norwegian researcher, explorer, and humanitarian. The book was composed throughout the political crisis that caused the dissolution of the union between Norway and Sweden. Nansen, a strong Norwegian patriot, talks about the historic and political background of the union, along with the reasons for its dissolution and the future potential customers for both countries.

Historical Background
Nansen begins his book by supplying a historic summary of the relations in between Norway and Sweden. The union was developed in 1814 following the Treaty of Kiel, which ended the Napoleonic Wars. Under the treaty, Norway was ceded from Denmark to Sweden, however it was allowed to keep its own constitution and institutions, while a personal union was developed under the Swedish king.

Nansen argues that the primary reason for the union was not the will of the Norwegian people, but the need for stability in Europe after the Napoleonic Wars. The Great Powers-- Great Britain, Russia, Prussia, and Austria-- agreed that Norway ought to be signed up with to Sweden to prevent prospective French influence in Scandinavia and to keep a balance of power in the area.

The Constitution and Institutions of the Union
In spite of the union, Norway and Sweden stayed different nations with unique organizations. Norway had its own constitution, parliament (the Storting), judicial system, and civil administration. The King held executive power and was likewise the head of the Norwegian federal government, represented by the Council of Ministers.

Nevertheless, the union likewise established a joint foreign policy, with Sweden effectively taking the leading role. This resulted in stress between the Norwegian and Swedish governments, in addition to individuals of both countries. Norwegians felt that their interests were often neglected or undermined by Sweden's supremacy in foreign policy matters.

Tensions and Dissatisfaction within the Union
Throughout the book, Nansen explains the stress and dissatisfaction within the union. Although there were periods of cooperation between the 2 nations, Norwegian goals for more autonomy and influence in foreign affairs were met with resistance from the Swedish government. For instance, in 1891, the Norwegian parliament passed a resolution requesting the establishment of a separate consular service for Norway, however the Swedish Riksdag refused to accept the proposal.

In addition to these political stress, cultural and social distinctions in between the two nations also contributed to the dissatisfaction within the union. Most notably, Nansen argues that Norway had a strong sense of nationwide identity, which sustained a desire for full independence.

The Path towards Dissolution and Independence
The final section of the book discusses the occasions that led to the dissolution of the union and the establishment of an independent Norwegian state. Throughout the very first years of the 20th century, the conflict over the different consular service concern intensified, resulting in a constitutional crisis in 1905. The Norwegian Storting stated the dissolution of the union on June 7, 1905.

The dissolution of the union was at first met resistance from Sweden and the hazard of war loomed. Nevertheless, both nations ultimately agreed to work out a serene separation. A referendum kept in August 1905 revealed that 99.95% of Norwegians were in favor of self-reliance, and the Swedish Riksdag recognized the dissolution of the union on October 26, 1905.

Following the dissolution, Prince Carl of Denmark was elected as King of Norway and took the name Haakon VII. A brand-new period of independence and global recognition had actually started for Norway.

Conclusion
In "Norway and the Union with Sweden", Fridtjof Nansen presents a comprehensive account of the historical and political context of the union, the tensions and frustration within it, and the events that ultimately led to its dissolution. The book is not only a valuable resource for understanding the occasions of 1905, however it likewise provides insights into the more comprehensive battle for nationwide identity and self-determination in 19th and early 20th century Europe. Through Nansen's point of view, readers are managed a peek into the patriotism and strength that defined Norway's trajectory towards self-reliance and prosperity.