The Union Dissolution Day, observed in Norway on 7 June (though not a public holiday),[1] is marked in remembrance of the Norwegian parliament's 1905 declaration of dissolution of the union with Sweden, a personal union which had existed since 1814. The day is celebrated in Norway as the Independence Day and is an official flag flying day, and is observed with ordinary salute at Akershus Fortress.[2] The Independence Day, however, has few traditions of celebration beyond that.

Union Dissolution Day
Observed byNorway
Significance7 June is Norway's Independence Day
CelebrationsFlag flying day in Norway
Date7 June
Next time7 June 2025 (2025-06-07)
Frequencyannual
Related to1905 Dissolution of the union between Norway and Sweden
The Norwegian royal family
1945 Liberation Day (8 May)
1814 Norwegian Constitution
Norwegian Constitution Day (annual: 17 May)

Royal return after World War II

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By historical coincidence, 7 June was also the date in 1940 when King Haakon VII of Norway and the royal family, along with the Norwegian cabinet and parliament, had to leave the country after escaping the German forces during the World War II invasion of Norway; and it is also the date in 1945 on which the King returned after 5 years of exile in London.

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1905: The Norwegian flag, without the union mark, is raised at Akershus Fortress following the dissolution resolution
 
1945: The royal family on June 7, 1945, returned after five years in exile. From left: King Haakon VII, Prince Harald (with flag), Crown Princess Märtha, Princess Astrid, Crown Prince Olav and Princess Ragnhild

References

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  1. ^ Theodore Harvey (10 June 2005). "In Memory of King Oscar II of Norway". Royalty Monarchy. Retrieved 11 February 2021.
  2. ^ "Cultural Experiences". Retrieved 11 February 2021.
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