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107 Common History

• The crosses

on the flags are symbols of Christianity.

     • Most people in the Nordic countries are no longer active Christians, but they do not want to change the flags.

     • Queen Margaret I of Denmark ruled the Nordic region 600 years ago.

     • During Margaret's reign (leadership), Sweden was part of Denmark. Norway has also been part of Denmark but also of Sweden. Finland has belonged to Sweden and Russia, and Iceland has belonged to Norway and Denmark. So it is not so strange that the countries are a bit like cousins who have a lot in common.

     • The countries are close to each other.
 

107 The Nordics: Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark

     • 27 million people, most in Sweden.  Fewest in Iceland.

     • Monarchy (king or queen):   Denmark,  Norway,  Sweden

     • Republic (president):  Finland &  Iceland.

     • Greenland is part of  Denmark. Trump wants to buy it.
 

►Even nowadays there is a cross on the Swedish flag. Why?

►Who ruled Sweden 600 years ago?

►The Nordic countries have a lot in common. Why do you think that is so?