The Flag of Norway
The flag of Norway features a red field with a blue cross outlined in white that extends to the edges of the flag. The cross is shifted towards the hoist side, following the Nordic tradition. The combination of colors vividly represents Norway's national identity and its historical ties to other Scandinavian countries.
History
The current design of the Norwegian flag was adopted on July 17, 1821, and it reflects the country's historical and cultural connections to other Scandinavian nations. The flag's concept was introduced by Fredrik Meltzer, a member of the Norwegian parliament, who proposed a design that combined elements of the French Tricolor with the Nordic Cross. This design was meant to symbolize Norway's independence, as well as its relationships with other Nordic countries. Before this, Norway used various flags during its union with Denmark and later with Sweden. The national flag of Norway, as we know it today, was not fully recognized until 1899, when Norway was still in a union with Sweden, but it was used extensively by the public and on merchant ships from the time of its adoption. The flag's design, particularly the use of the Nordic Cross, underscores Norway's connection to the other Scandinavian countries, while the colors red, white, and blue are often interpreted as symbols of liberty and independence.