History of Scandinavia in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 11, 2025

Scandinavia is a Northern European subregion with deep-rooted historical, cultural, and linguistic connections. It traditionally comprises Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, and sometimes includes the Scandinavian Peninsula. In some contexts, the term is used interchangeably with the Nordic countries. Iceland and the Faroe Islands are occasionally included because of their ethnolinguistic ties to the mainland Scandinavian nations. Although Finland's linguistic background differs, it is sometimes considered Scandinavian due to its economic and cultural similarities with the other Nordic countries.

1905: Dissolution of Swedish-Norwegian Union

In 1905, the Storting dissolved the union between Sweden and Norway. Subsequently, Prince Charles of Denmark was elected as King of Norway, becoming Haakon VII.

1910: Establishment of The American-Scandinavian Foundation

In 1910, The American-Scandinavian Foundation was established in the United States by Niels Poulsen to promote market and tourism interests in the Nordic region.

1918: Iceland Under Danish Control

Until 1918, Iceland was under the political control of Denmark, with minimal Danish influence on the Icelandic language.

February 1985: Coldest Month in Vittangi, Sweden

In February 1985, Vittangi, Sweden, experienced its coldest month with an average temperature of −27.2 °C.

1986: Scandinavian Tourist Board Cooperation Introduced

In 1986, the Swedish national tourist board joined the Danish national tourist board to coordinate intergovernmental promotion of the two countries in the Asian market.