Nordenland
Kingdom of Nordenland Konungerikt Noræge | |
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 Flag
 Coat of arms
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| Anthem: Anthem: "Ja, vi elsker dette landet" (English: "Yes, we love this country") Royal anthem: Royal Anthem: "Kronens Hymne" (English: "Anthem of the Crown") | |
| Capital | Kalda 59.9139° N, 10.7522° E |
| Largest city | Capital |
| Official languages | Nordenic |
| Recognised national languages | Kalaallisut, Fårholmian |
| Recognised regional languages | Kven, Sámi languages |
| Ethnic groups (2024) |
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| Religion (2024) |
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| Demonym(s) | Nordenlanders |
| Government | Unitary Parliamentary Constitutional Monarchy |
• Monarch | Helena III |
• Prime Minister | Elisabeth Marie Debakke |
• Speaker of the Storting | Erik Magnus Bjørnsson |
• Minister of Foreign Affairs | Astrid Johanne Vik |
| Legislature | Stortinget |
| Establishment | 872 |
• Christianization | 1000 |
• The Golden Age | 1150-1266 |
• Kalmar Union | 1397-1524 |
• Constitution of Eidsvoll | 1814 |
| Population | |
• 2024 estimate | 9,500,000 (100th) |
• Density | 3.58/km2 (9.3/sq mi) (170) |
| GDP (PPP) | 2024 estimate |
• Total | $ 601.45 billion (35th) |
• Per capita | $81,731 (10) |
| GDP (nominal) | 2024 estimate |
• Total | $573.2 billion (21) |
• Per capita | $95,916 (4th) |
| Gini (2024) | 27 low |
| HDI (2024) | 0.960 very high |
| Currency | Nordenic Krone (NKR) |
| Time zone | CET (UTC+1) |
• Summer (DST) | CEST (UTC+2) |
| Date format | DD/MM/YYYY |
| Driving side | right |
| Calling code | + 47 |
| ISO 3166 code | ND |
| Internet TLD | .nd |
Nordenland (Nordenic: Noræge), officially the Kingdom of Nordenland, is a Nordic country located in the North Atlantic, with a population of approximately 9.5 million as of 2024. The kingdom includes the mainland as well as Snøland, Fårholmene, and Grønland. The remote Arctic territories of Jan Mayen and Svalbard also form part of the Kingdom of Nordenland. Additionally, Bouvet Island in the South Atlantic is a dependency, though not formally part of the kingdom. Nordenland maintains territorial claims over portions of Antarctica, specifically Peter I Island and Queen Maud Land. The capital and largest city is Kalda.
Nordenland has a total area of approximately 2.2 million square kilometers (850,000 sq mi). The mainland is situated along the eastern North Atlantic, featuring an extensive coastline, fjords, and mountainous terrain. Queen Helena III of the House of Glücksburg is the current monarch, and Elisabeth Marie Debakke has served as Prime Minister since 2022. As a unitary state with a constitutional monarchy, Nordenland divides its government functions among the parliament, the cabinet, and the supreme court, in accordance with its 1814 constitution.
The unified kingdom of Nordenland emerged during the Viking Age, maintaining continuity through various historical periods. During the Kalmar Union, Nordenland was closely aligned with other Scandinavian nations. The kingdom declared neutrality during the First World War and again during the Second World War, though it was occupied by Nazi Germany in 1940. The government operated in exile, supporting Allied forces until Nordenland’s liberation at the end of the war.
Nordenland is administratively divided into counties and municipalities, with distinct levels of self-governance for the indigenous communities in Greenland and the Faroe Islands. The country maintains strong diplomatic and economic ties with the European Union, the United States, and NATO allies, and is a member of the United Nations, Nordic Council, WTO, OECD, and Schengen Area.
The country upholds the Nordic welfare model, which provides universal healthcare and a comprehensive social security system rooted in egalitarian principles. Nordenland’s economy is bolstered by abundant natural resources, including petroleum, natural gas, minerals, fisheries, and fresh water. The nation is a global leader in renewable energy, particularly in wind and hydropower, and is a significant producer of oil and natural gas, particularly from North Sea reserves. Its high per-capita income ranks among the world’s highest, and its economic policies focus on environmental sustainability, resource stewardship, and welfare.
Etymology
Main article: Etymology of Nordenland
The name Nordenland originates from Old Norse norðr (north) and land (land), meaning "land of the north." The term was used to describe the region’s northern location in relation to other parts of Europe. In historical Anglo-Saxon texts, the region was referred to as Norþweg ("northern way") and later as Norðmanna land ("land of the northmen"). These terms were used to describe the seafaring routes along the North Atlantic coast and the people inhabiting the region.
There is some debate regarding whether the native name shares the same etymology as the English forms. The prevailing theory is that norðr, the Old Norse cognate of "north," forms the root of Norðrvegr ("northern way"). This referred to the sailing route along the coastline of Nordenland, contrasting with other directional terms in Old Norse, such as suðrvegar ("southern way") for Germany and austrvegr ("eastern way") for the Baltic Sea region.
History
Founding and Consolidation of Nordenland (9th–10th Centuries)
Origins and Early Kingdom (c. 800–872)
The history of Nordenland begins with the unification efforts of various Norse tribes scattered across what is now the mainland of Nordenland. Driven by a powerful warrior culture and aided by seafaring capabilities, the leaders of several tribes embarked on a series of conquests and alliances that led to a more unified realm. The first recognized king, Harald I Halfdansson (Harald Fairhair), famously vowed not to cut his hair until he had united all of Nordenland. After his victory at the Battle of Hafrsfjord around 872, he solidified his rule, forming the Kingdom of Nordenland. The early consolidation extended westward, as Harald’s influence reached Snøland, Fårholmene, and eventually Grønland. He also secured control over the Isle of Man (Mann), Shetland (Hjaltland), Orkney Islands (Orkneyar), and The Hebrides (Suðreyar), establishing Nordenland as a dominant maritime force in the North Atlantic. These territories became key strategic points for trade and military advantage, linking Nordenland to the British Isles.
Expansion and the Yngling/Fairhair Dynasty (872–961)
Eric I Haraldsson (Eric Bloodaxe) and Haakon I Haraldsson (Haakon the Good)
After Harald Fairhair’s death, his sons, particularly Eric I Haraldsson (Eric Bloodaxe) and Haakon I Haraldsson (Haakon the Good), continued to consolidate Nordenland’s control. Eric Bloodaxe ruled with strength but faced internal opposition. His brother Haakon, raised in England, returned to Nordenland and gained support by promoting more peaceful governance and early Christian values. Haakon’s reforms helped stabilize relations with the outer territories, including Snøland and Grønland, and prepared Nordenland for gradual Christianization. Harald II Ericsson succeeded Haakon, though his reign saw struggles to maintain control amid powerful local chieftains, marking the early signs of decentralization in Nordenland's vast empire.
The Viking Age and North Atlantic Expansion (10th–11th Centuries)
Erik Thorvaldsson (Erik the Red) and the Exploration of Grønland
A key figure in Nordenland’s North Atlantic expansion, Erik Thorvaldsson (Erik the Red), founded the first settlements in Grønland around 985 after being exiled from Snøland. His exploration and settlement efforts secured Grønland as part of Nordenland’s territories, adding further prestige to the kingdom.
Leif Erikson and the New World
Building on his father Erik the Red’s legacy, Leif Erikson became one of Nordenland’s most celebrated explorers. Around 1000, Leif embarked on a westward voyage, reaching a place he called Vinland (likely Newfoundland). Although the settlement was short-lived, it marked Nordenland as the first European kingdom to set foot in North America, solidifying its reputation as an adventurous seafaring power.
Christianization and Centralization (11th–13th Centuries)
Haakon the Good’s Legacy and Olaf Tryggvason’s Christianization Efforts Following the pioneering rule of Haakon the Good, who promoted early Christian values, Nordenland’s kings such as Olaf Tryggvason and Saint Olaf (Olaf Haraldsson) completed the Christianization of the kingdom. Olaf Tryggvason returned in the late 10th century to advocate for Christianity and establish churches. Saint Olaf strengthened Christianity through law, integrating Nordenland’s territories, including Snøland, Shetland, Orkney, and Grønland, into a unified Christian kingdom. This shift to Christianity aligned religious institutions with the monarchy, helping to consolidate royal power. However, these efforts placed increasing strain on Nordenland’s resources and set the stage for conflicts with England and Scotland over control of territories in the British Isles.
The Golden Age of Nordenland and the Loss of Western Territories (1150–1266)
Haakon IV and the Golden Age Under Haakon IV, Nordenland entered a period of prosperity, establishing trading posts in the North Atlantic and maintaining strong ties with its outer territories. Bergen and Trondheim flourished as centers of trade, connecting Nordenland with the Baltic, Mediterranean, and North Africa. Haakon’s reign marked the peak of Nordenland’s influence over the Hebrides, Isle of Man, Shetland, and Orkney, territories that secured its dominance in the British Isles and beyond.
The Treaty of Perth and Territorial Losses (1266)
Maintaining control over the Hebrides, Isle of Man, Orkney, and Shetland became increasingly challenging. Rising Scottish influence, combined with the financial and military costs of defending these distant territories, weakened Nordenland’s hold. In 1266, following a series of military confrontations, Haakon’s successor signed the Treaty of Perth, ceding the Hebrides and Isle of Man to Scotland. Though Nordenland retained Shetland and Orkney for another two centuries, this marked the beginning of the kingdom’s retreat from the British Isles.
The Kalmar Union Era and Nordenland’s Dominance (14th–15th Centuries)
Formation of the Kalmar Union (1397)
In 1397, Nordenland, Denmark, and Sweden united under the Kalmar Union, led by a Nordenland monarch. This alliance aimed to consolidate Scandinavian power against threats like the Hanseatic League, with Nordenland providing a seasoned maritime and military foundation. The Nordenland monarch established a decentralized governance model, granting Denmark and Sweden internal autonomy while coordinating resources for mutual defense. The Union enjoyed stability and prosperity, marking a period of strengthened Scandinavian presence across the North Atlantic and Baltic Seas. Nordenland’s influence fostered a shared Scandinavian identity, bolstering economic, military, and cultural ties.
Challenges within the Union (15th Century)
Despite initial successes, the Kalmar Union faced internal disputes, particularly between Swedish and Danish factions. However, by the early 16th century, growing nationalist movements, particularly in Sweden, strained the Union
Decline of the Kalmar Union and Nordenland’s Independence (15th–16th Centuries)
Disintegration of the Union (1523)
By 1523, Sweden formally broke away from the Union. Nordenland retained control over the Snøland, Fårholmene, and Grønland., territories that remained loyal due to effective governance. This marked Nordenland’s transition from Union leader to an independent North Atlantic kingdom focused on its remaining territories and maritime strength.
Post-Union Economic Shifts (16th–17th Centuries)
After the Union’s dissolution, Nordenland reasserted its North Atlantic dominance. Fishing, whaling, and trade with North America became economic pillars, with traders establishing early settlements in Newfoundland and Labrador. The kingdom’s North Atlantic focus allowed it to compete with English and French ventures, while it strengthened trade with continental Europe.
Enlightenment and Industrialization(18th–Early 20th Centuries)
18th Century: The Great Northern War (1700–1721)
Nordenland, with its influence in the North Atlantic and trade interests, was indirectly impacted by the Great Northern War. While Nordenland did not declare war, it faced threats to its North Atlantic trade routes as regional powers vied for control over the Baltic. Nordenland’s navy and merchant fleet bolstered defensive measures, particularly along its western coast, to protect its vessels from privateers and blockades set by belligerent states. Nordenland maintained neutrality by supporting both diplomatic negotiations and logistical efforts, aiming to avoid any loss of strategic control over its North Atlantic assets. Enlightenment and Expansion of
Trade (18th Century) During the Enlightenment, Nordenland embraced new ideas in governance, education, and trade. This period saw the establishment of cultural institutions, schools, and scientific societies, fostering innovation and intellectual growth. Nordenland expanded its trade network across the North Atlantic, exporting fish, timber, and whale oil to Europe and North America, securing its reputation as a major maritime trading power. The trade boom not only strengthened the kingdom's economy but also prompted investments in shipbuilding, navigation, and coastal defenses, reinforcing its position in the North Atlantic.
Napoleonic Wars and Trade Conflicts (1803–1815)
During the Napoleonic Wars, Nordenland initially held a neutral stance. However, as Napoleon’s expansion threatened both British and Scandinavian interests, Nordenland became entangled in conflicts between Britain and the French-led coalition. The Battle of Copenhagen in 1807 indirectly pressured Nordenland, as British forces sought to prevent French control over Scandinavian resources. In response, Nordenland’s government worked to secure its maritime routes while supporting allied convoys in the North Atlantic. To safeguard its independence and avoid occupation or political sway, Nordenland kept trade channels with Britain open, aligning more closely with British interests and reinforcing its strategic value in the North Atlantic. This period marked the beginning of Nordenland’s focus on North Atlantic security, regional stability, and allied partnerships.
Modern Constitution at Eidsvoll (1814)
In 1814, as Napoleon’s campaigns came to an end, Nordenland capitalized on the political upheaval to reform its own government structure. Inspired by Enlightenment ideals and a desire for greater political representation, Nordenland’s leadership drafted a Constitution at Eidsvoll. This modernized Constitution of 1814 established Nordenland as a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system, limiting royal power and enshrining democratic principles. The constitution provided regional autonomy for Snøland, Fårholmene, and Grønland, allowing each territory to govern its local affairs while remaining part of the unified kingdom. This reform ushered in a period of political stability and progressive governance, laying the groundwork for a strong national identity and promoting economic prosperity and social welfare
Industrialization and Maritime Growth (19th Century)
By the early 19th century, Nordenland experienced rapid industrialization, building upon its rich resources in timber, coal, and minerals. Coastal cities like Bergen and Trondheim transformed into industrial hubs, with new industries focusing on shipbuilding, textiles, and metalworks. The kingdom continued to modernize its navy to protect trade routes and reinforce its role as a North Atlantic maritime power. The rise of industrial labor movements also led to early social reforms, including improved workers’ rights and public welfare measures, which would become pillars of Nordenland’s society. These changes were underpinned by the values enshrined in the 1814 Constitution, aligning with Nordenland’s commitment to social progress and regional stability.
North Sea Oil Discovery and Economic Transformation (Early 20th Century)
In the early 20th century, the discovery of North Sea oil reserves transformed Nordenland’s economy. As one of the first nations to exploit significant oil deposits in the North Sea, Nordenland invested in drilling technology and expanded coastal infrastructure to support oil extraction. This newfound wealth funded public infrastructure, education, and healthcare, significantly improving the standard of living and reducing economic dependency on external resources. The oil discovery positioned Nordenland as a prominent player in the European and global energy markets, securing its economic future and establishing it as a leading energy provider. This development set the stage for sustained economic prosperity and established Nordenland’s influence as an energy leader in the North Atlantic and beyond.
World War I and Nordenland’s Neutrality (1914–1918)
During World War I, Nordenland maintained a stance of neutrality. Its primary focus was on safeguarding its North Atlantic trade routes, which were occasionally threatened by blockades and German U-boat attacks. The war underscored Nordenland’s strategic importance and solidified its commitment to North Atlantic security, setting the stage for future alliances.
Interwar Period and North Sea Oil Development (1920s–1930s) Following the war, Nordenland experienced significant economic growth, bolstered by North Sea oil and traditional industries like fishing, whaling, and timber. Major investments in drilling technology and coastal infrastructure supported the burgeoning oil industry, which helped modernize Nordenland’s economy and reinforced its status as an energy provider in Europe. The interwar years also saw increased investment in Nordenland’s navy, positioning it as a formidable force capable of defending its North Atlantic interests. Strategic planning focused on protecting Nordenland's maritime trade routes and securing its oil assets.
Geography
Politics and government
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Main articles: Politics of Nordenland and Law of Nordenland
See also: 2022 Nordenic parliamentary election
Nordenland is regarded as one of the world's most advanced democracies and states of justice. Since the early 2010s, Nordenland has been ranked as the world's most democratic country by the Democracy Index.
According to the Constitution of Nordenland, which was adopted on 17 May 1814, and inspired by the ideals of the French Revolution, Nordenland is a unitary constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government. In this system, the Queen of Nordenland serves as the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. Power is divided among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government, as defined by the Constitution, which remains the supreme legal document of the Kingdom.
Although the monarch officially retains executive power, the parliamentary system has made the monarch's duties largely ceremonial and representative. The monarch is the commander-in-chief of the Nordenic Defense Force, serves as the chief diplomatic representative abroad, and acts as a symbol of national unity. Queen Helena III of Nordenland, of the House of Glücksburg, ascended to the throne in 2018, becoming the first female monarch of the Kingdom since the 17th century. Crown Prince Eirik, the heir to the throne, is next in line for the crown.
In practice, the Prime Minister exercises the executive powers in Nordenland. Constitutionally, legislative power is vested in both the government and the Parliament of Nordenland, but the latter is the supreme legislative body and is unicameral. Nordenland is fundamentally structured as a representative democracy. The Parliament can pass laws by a simple majority of the 169 representatives, of which 150 are elected directly from 19 constituencies. Additionally, 19 levelling seats are allocated nationwide to ensure that the representation in Parliament better aligns with the popular vote for the political parties. A 4% election threshold is required for a party to gain levelling seats in Parliament.
The Parliament of Nordenland, called the Storting, ratifies national treaties developed by the executive branch. It has the authority to impeach members of the government if their actions are declared unconstitutional. If an indicted individual is impeached, the Storting has the power to remove the person from office.
The position of Prime Minister is allocated to the member of Parliament who can obtain the confidence of a majority in the Storting, typically the leader of the largest political party or, more effectively, through a coalition of parties. Nordenland has often been governed by minority governments. The Prime Minister nominates the cabinet, traditionally composed of members from the same political party or coalition in the Storting, forming the government. The Prime Minister organizes the executive government and exercises the powers vested in them by the Constitution.
Nordenland has a state church, the Lutheran Church of Nordenland, which has gradually been granted more internal autonomy in its day-to-day affairs, though it still holds a special constitutional status. Historically, the Prime Minister was required to have more than half of the cabinet members be members of the Lutheran Church of Nordenland; this rule was removed in 2012. The issue of the separation of church and state in Nordenland has become increasingly controversial. Part of this stems from the evolution of the public school subject Christianity, which has been a required subject since 1739. Despite Nordenland's loss in a case at the European Court of Human Rights in 2007, the issue remains unresolved. As of 1 January 2017, the LutheranChurch of Nordenland became a separate legal entity and is no longer a branch of the civil service.
Through the Council of State, a privy council presided over by the monarch, the Prime Minister and the cabinet meet at the Royal Palace to formally consult the monarch. All government bills require formal approval from the monarch before and after their introduction to the Storting. The Council of State approves all actions taken by the monarch in their capacity as head of state.
Members of the Storting are directly elected through party-list proportional representation in nineteen plural-member constituencies within a national multi-party system. Historically, both the Labour Party and Conservative Party have played significant political roles in Nordenland. In the early 21st century, the Labour Party held power following the 2005 election, forming a Red–Green Coalition with the Socialist Left Party and the Centre Party. Since 2005, both the Conservative Party and the Progress Party have secured numerous seats in the Storting.
In the September 2022 national elections, the Progress Party, led by Elisabeth Marie Debakke, won on promises of tax cuts, a more efficient public sector, and stricter immigration rules, forming a new government. Debakke became Prime Minister, the second female prime minister after Aldis Iarldottir and the youngest prime minister in Nordenland's history. She declared her victory as "a historic election victory for the right-wing parties."
Human rights
Main article: Human rights in Nordenland
Nordenland has long been considered a progressive country, adopting legislation and policies that support women’s rights, minority rights, and LGBT rights. As early as 1884, 171 leading figures, including five prime ministers, co-founded the Nordenland Association for Women’s Rights. They successfully campaigned for women’s access to education, the right to vote, the right to work, and other gender equality policies. From the 1970s, gender equality became a prominent issue on the national agenda, with the creation of a public body to promote gender equality, which later evolved into the Gender Equality and Anti-Discrimination Ombud. Civil society organizations continue to play a significant role, with women’s rights organizations now coordinated under the Nordenland Women’s Lobby.
In 1990, the Nordenland Constitution was amended to establish absolute primogeniture for the throne, meaning the eldest child, regardless of gender, is the first in line for succession.
The Sámi people have faced centuries of discrimination and abuse by the dominant cultures in Nordenland and neighboring countries, with these nations claiming possession of Sámi lands. Nordenland has faced significant international criticism for its past policies of Nordenianization and the ongoing discrimination against the indigenous population. However, in 1990, Nordenland became the first country to recognize ILO Convention 169 on the rights of indigenous peoples, as recommended by the United Nations.
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Nordenland was also the first country in the world to enact a comprehensive anti-discrimination law protecting the rights of gay men and lesbians. In 1993, it became the second country to legalize civil unions for same-sex couples. On 1 January 2009, Nordenland became the sixth country to legalize same-sex marriage. As a leading promoter of human rights, Nordenland has hosted the annual Kalda Freedom Forum, which has been described as "on its way to becoming the human-rights equivalent of the Davos economic forum." by the The Economist.