Norway Flag Emoji 🇳🇴

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Flag History & Vexillology

Norway’s flag—a red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white—is a distinctive emblem that reflects the nation’s Nordic heritage, historical independence, and deep connection to its maritime identity. The flag’s design and evolution tell the story of Norway’s journey from union with other Scandinavian powers to its establishment as a sovereign and independent nation in the 20th century. The striking color combination and cross design place Norway firmly within the Scandinavian tradition while distinguishing it as uniquely Norwegian.

Origins and Early Development

Norway’s path to a national flag is inextricably linked to its complex political history within the Scandinavian region. For centuries, Norway existed under the dominion of more powerful neighboring states. The Kalmar Union, established in 1397, united Norway, Denmark, and Sweden under a single monarch, effectively subsuming Norwegian political independence. During this period, Norway did not possess a distinct national flag but rather shared symbols with Denmark or Sweden depending on the political configuration of the time.

In 1814, following the Napoleonic Wars and Denmark’s alliance with Napoleon, Norway was transferred from Danish to Swedish control through the Treaty of Kiel. This union with Sweden lasted until 1905, but it was during this extended period of Swedish rule that Norwegian national identity began to flourish. The 19th century witnessed a growing Norwegian cultural revival, as Norwegians sought to reclaim their distinct identity through language, literature, and increasingly, national symbols. It was during this era of growing independence sentiment that the Norwegian flag emerged as a powerful symbol of national aspirations.

The first unofficial Norwegian flag appeared in 1821, designed by student Fredrikke Marie Qvam, featuring a cross design with the colors of the flag that would eventually be adopted. However, the officially recognized Norwegian flag was formally adopted in 1821, when the Norwegian parliament (Storting) approved a flag featuring a red field with a blue Nordic cross outlined in white. This design aligned Norway with other Scandinavian nations that had similarly adopted Nordic cross flags, yet maintained distinct color schemes that reflected each nation’s unique identity.

Symbolism of Colors and Elements

The Norwegian flag’s color scheme carries profound symbolic meaning that resonates throughout the nation’s history and culture. Red, the dominant color of the field, represents courage, bravery, and the bloodshed of Norwegian warriors throughout history. Red was historically associated with Norway’s maritime heritage and fishing traditions, colors that dominated the landscape and economy of this seafaring nation. The choice of red also connects Norway to the broader Scandinavian tradition, appearing in the flags of other Nordic nations and symbolizing a shared cultural and historical bond.

The blue cross is perhaps the most distinctive element of Norway’s flag. Blue holds multiple layers of significance in Norwegian culture and history. It represents the nation’s deep connection to the sea and sky—Norway’s geography is dominated by fjords, mountains, and extensive coastlines that have shaped its identity as a maritime nation for millennia. The blue also carries associations with loyalty, truth, and stability. The white outline of the cross provides visual contrast and clarity, ensuring the flag’s distinctive design remains visible at all distances. This design choice is both functional and aesthetic, making the Norwegian flag instantly recognizable and visually striking.

The Scandinavian cross itself is a defining feature shared by all Nordic flags. The cross design originated from Christian symbolism, with the vertical arm of the cross offset toward the hoist (the left side when the flag is viewed normally). This placement tradition dates back to medieval Nordic heraldry and church symbolism. The Nordic cross represents the shared Christian heritage of Scandinavian nations and their historical role as defenders of Christian Europe. In Norway’s case, the cross’s offset positioning and the specific color combination distinguish the Norwegian flag from those of Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland, each of which features its own unique color arrangement while maintaining the distinctive Nordic cross design.

Historical Changes and Evolution

The Norwegian flag’s design has remained remarkably stable since its formal adoption in 1821, demonstrating the enduring nature of its symbolism and the broad consensus around its representation of Norwegian identity. However, the flag’s significance and usage evolved dramatically throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly as Norway’s political status changed.

During the union with Sweden (1814-1905), the Norwegian flag could not be flown independently; instead, the combined flags of Sweden and Norway appeared together on shared vessels and state occasions. This restriction symbolized Norway’s subordinate political status within the union. The inability to display their own flag independently fueled Norwegian nationalist sentiment and became a powerful symbol of the desire for independence. As the 19th century progressed and Norwegian nationalism intensified, the flag became increasingly important as a symbol of national identity and the aspirations of a people seeking self-determination.

The union between Sweden and Norway was formally dissolved in 1905, a pivotal moment in Norwegian history. The peaceful dissolution of this union—achieved through negotiation rather than military conflict—was remarkable for its civility and diplomatic success. Following independence, Norway was able to proudly display its flag as the sole national emblem, no longer requiring the inclusion of Swedish symbols. This moment marked a watershed in Norwegian national consciousness, and the flag became a powerful symbol of newly won sovereignty and independence. The ability to display the Norwegian flag alone became a source of immense pride and national identity.

Notable Historical Moments

The Norwegian flag has flown during some of the most significant and dramatic moments in modern Norwegian and European history. During World War II, when Nazi Germany invaded and occupied Norway in 1940, the Norwegian flag became a powerful symbol of resistance and national identity. King Haakon VII of Norway fled to Britain with the government in exile, where the Norwegian flag continued to represent the nation’s independence and the Norwegian people’s determination to resist occupation. Norwegians displaying or honoring the flag risked severe punishment from Nazi occupiers, yet the flag remained an enduring symbol of Norwegian defiance and hope.

The liberation of Norway in 1945 was celebrated with the triumphant display of the Norwegian flag throughout the nation. The flag’s reappearance as the primary symbol of national authority marked the restoration of Norwegian sovereignty and independence after five years of brutal occupation. The emotional power of the flag during this period cemented its status as perhaps the most important national symbol in Norwegian culture and consciousness.

Throughout the latter 20th century, the Norwegian flag represented the nation’s growing prosperity, particularly following the discovery of vast oil reserves in the North Sea. Norway’s flag became synonymous with economic success, political stability, and the establishment of the Nordic welfare state model that became admired worldwide. The flag flew proudly at the 1994 Winter Olympics held in Lillehammer, Norway, showcasing the nation to a global audience and symbolizing Norwegian achievement and capability on the world stage.

Modern Significance and Cultural Importance

Today, the Norwegian flag holds profound significance in Norwegian society and culture. It is displayed with great respect on national holidays, particularly May 17th, Norwegian Constitution Day, when celebrations throughout the nation feature the flag prominently. Traditional Norwegian celebrations, parades, and civic ceremonies invariably feature numerous flag displays, demonstrating the flag’s deep integration into Norwegian identity and cultural practice. The flag appears on government buildings, embassies, and international sporting venues, representing Norwegian interests and identity on the global stage.

Norwegians display a particular attachment to their flag, with the design appearing on traditional clothing, handicrafts, and decorative items. The flag’s colors and cross design have been incorporated into contemporary Norwegian design, fashion, and cultural expressions, ensuring its continued relevance in modern Norwegian life. The flag serves as a connection between generations, linking contemporary Norwegians to their nation’s history and to ancestors who struggled for and ultimately achieved independence and national self-determination.

The Norwegian flag’s design remains unchanged in the modern era, reflecting the broad consensus around its representation of Norwegian values and identity. This stability contrasts with many nations that have redesigned their flags following major political transitions. For Norway, the flag’s consistency embodies the continuity of national identity across centuries of change, from union to independence, from occupation to liberation, and from agricultural to modern industrial and post-industrial society. The flag’s blue cross against red field stands as a timeless symbol of Norwegian courage, maritime heritage, and hard-won independence.

Sources and References

Norwegian Royal House Official Website. The Norwegian Constitution (as adopted and amended). Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Norway. Smith, Whitney (1975). Flags Through the Ages and Across the World. McGraw-Hill. Crampton, William G. (2008). The Complete Guide to Heraldry. Bounty Books. Znamierowski, Alfred (2013). The World Encyclopedia of Flags. Lorenz Books. Myhre, Jan Eivind (1994). “Norwegian Identity in the Nineteenth Century.” Scandinavian Journal of History, Vol. 19, No. 2. Lundestad, Geir (2003). East, West, North, South: Major Developments in International Politics 1945-2000. Oxford University Press. Derry, T.K. (1973). A History of Modern Norway 1814-1972. Oxford University Press. Norby, Leif & Trebilcock, Caroline (1977). The Scandinavian Heritage. Hippocene Books. Vexillology Database (International Flag Research Center). Flag usage and history standards according to Norwegian national law and the Norwegian Parliament archives.

3D Glossy Render — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag of Norway as a photorealistic 3D render. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag fabric hangs or drapes naturally but preserves exact proportions, colors, and all symbols perfectly — completely faithful to the real Norway flag. Dramatic studio lighting, glossy silk material, soft shadows, subsurface scattering, perfect specular highlights. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Chalk on Blackboard — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag of Norway drawn in chalk on a real blackboard. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Authentic blackboard — dark slate green surface with chalk dust and smudge marks. Soft, dusty white and colored chalk lines, imperfect edges, hand-drawn quality. Chalk dust particles visible in the air. The flag is immediately recognizable. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Embroidered Textile — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag of Norway as intricate embroidery on linen fabric. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Dense satin stitches, French knots, chain stitch detail. The flag design is completely faithful — exact colors, geometry, and all symbols faithfully stitched, immediately recognizable as the Norway flag. Visible thread texture, dimensional quality, warm handcrafted feel. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Flagpole in Capital — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Photorealistic photograph of the Norway flag flying on a tall flagpole in front of an iconic government building in the capital city. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag ripples naturally in the wind, colors vivid and exact. Documentary photography style, sharp and realistic. Grand architecture in the background. Blue sky, dramatic clouds. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Golden Hour Reflection — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Photorealistic photograph of the Norway flag reflected in still water at golden hour. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag flies on a pole at the water’s edge, its reflection shimmering on the surface below. Warm amber and orange sunset light. The flag colors and design are faithful and vivid. Serene, cinematic landscape photography. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Street Art / Graffiti — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag of Norway as vibrant street art spray-painted on a brick wall. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Bold spray paint, dripping edges, stencil layers, overspray halos. The flag design is faithful and immediately recognizable — exact colors and symbols, just rendered in spray paint on urban concrete. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind. No tags, no graffiti lettering.

Sci-Fi Hologram — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag of Norway projected as a futuristic holographic display. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Translucent blue-white projection with scan lines, floating in dark space. Glitching edges, particle effects, data streams. The flag design is completely faithful and recognizable. Cyberpunk HUD elements framing the projection. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Hyperrealistic Wind — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Ultra-hyperrealistic photograph of the Norway flag caught in a dramatic gust of wind. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Macro-level fabric detail — individual threads visible, fabric folds and tension lines crisp. Colors and design completely faithful to the real Norway flag. High-speed shutter, razor-sharp focus, studio lighting. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Impressionist Oil — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag of Norway painted in French Impressionist oil on canvas. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Thick impasto brushstrokes, dappled light, vibrant broken color technique in the style of Monet. The flag is instantly recognizable — colors and design faithful to the real Norway flag, interpreted with impressionist light and texture. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Lego Bricks — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag of Norway built from Lego bricks, photographed as a real physical construction. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Visible studs and brick seams, slight plastic sheen. Standard Lego colors approximate the flag’s palette. Built on a gray Lego baseplate. Dramatic angle showing the three-dimensional brick texture. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Low-Poly Geometric — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag of Norway constructed from low-polygon geometric triangles. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Aggressively faceted — each region broken into many visible triangular faces with subtle color variation across each polygon, creating real depth and dimensionality even in flat-color areas of the flag. Crystal-like, contemporary computational design. The flag is completely faithful and immediately recognizable. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Mosaic Tiles — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag of Norway assembled as a Roman-style mosaic. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag is completely faithful to the real Norway flag — exact proportions, colors, and all symbols, rendered in thousands of small stone and glass tesserae. Visible grout lines, rich earthy tones mixed with brilliant glass, slight historical weathering. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Native Landscape — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Photorealistic photograph of the Norway flag flying in an iconic natural landscape native to Norway — the terrain, flora, and environment characteristic of that country. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag is prominent and its colors are faithful and vivid. Remote, uninhabited wilderness. National Geographic photography style. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Neon Sign — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag of Norway recreated as a real neon sign mounted on a dark wall. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Glowing glass neon tubes bent into the flag’s shapes — the colors of the flag rendered in actual neon light. Visible glass tube bends, metal mounting brackets on the wall. Warm neon glow and light bloom. Real neon, not digital. Photographed in a dark room. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Pencil Sketch — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag of Norway as a bold, confident pencil sketch. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Strong graphite lines on cream paper — not delicate but bold and decisive. Heavy pressure on key outlines, dramatic cross-hatching for deep shadows and shading. Immediately recognizable as the Norway flag. Artist’s confident hand, not tentative. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Pixel Art — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag of Norway as detailed 16-bit pixel art. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Crisp pixel grid, limited palette with careful dithering, nostalgic retro game aesthetic. Clean grid-aligned design with subtle shading. Every element of the flag faithfully reproduced in pixels. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Stained Glass — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag of Norway rendered as an ornate stained glass window. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The design is completely faithful to the real Norway flag — exact colors, geometry, and all symbols preserved. Brilliant jewel-toned glass pieces separated by dark lead came lines. Warm sunlight streaming through, casting colored light. Gothic cathedral craftsmanship. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Ukiyo-e Woodblock — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag of Norway as a traditional Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock print. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Bold outlines, flat areas of rich color, flowing organic forms. Wind and waves incorporated into the composition. Printed on washi paper with visible wood grain texture. The flag is the central focus and instantly recognizable. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

Vintage Postage Stamp — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag of Norway as a vintage 1950s postage stamp. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag fills most of the stamp — it is the primary subject, faithfully rendered in fine engraved intaglio style. Perforated edges, aged paper with slight foxing. The stamp may show a denomination numeral only — absolutely no other text or country names.

Watercolor — Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. The flag of Norway painted in loose, expressive watercolor. Red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white. Wet-on-wet technique with soft color bleeds, visible brushstrokes, natural paper texture. Delicate splashes and drips at the edges. Luminous, translucent layers of pigment. No text, no letters, no words, no writing of any kind.

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Flag History & Vexillology

Norway’s flag—a red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white—is a distinctive emblem that reflects the nation’s Nordic heritage, historical independence, and deep connection to its maritime identity. The flag’s design and evolution tell the story of Norway’s journey from union with other Scandinavian powers to its establishment as a sovereign and independent nation in the 20th century. The striking color combination and cross design place Norway firmly within the Scandinavian tradition while distinguishing it as uniquely Norwegian.

Origins and Early Development

Norway’s path to a national flag is inextricably linked to its complex political history within the Scandinavian region. For centuries, Norway existed under the dominion of more powerful neighboring states. The Kalmar Union, established in 1397, united Norway, Denmark, and Sweden under a single monarch, effectively subsuming Norwegian political independence. During this period, Norway did not possess a distinct national flag but rather shared symbols with Denmark or Sweden depending on the political configuration of the time.

In 1814, following the Napoleonic Wars and Denmark’s alliance with Napoleon, Norway was transferred from Danish to Swedish control through the Treaty of Kiel. This union with Sweden lasted until 1905, but it was during this extended period of Swedish rule that Norwegian national identity began to flourish. The 19th century witnessed a growing Norwegian cultural revival, as Norwegians sought to reclaim their distinct identity through language, literature, and increasingly, national symbols. It was during this era of growing independence sentiment that the Norwegian flag emerged as a powerful symbol of national aspirations.

The first unofficial Norwegian flag appeared in 1821, designed by student Fredrikke Marie Qvam, featuring a cross design with the colors of the flag that would eventually be adopted. However, the officially recognized Norwegian flag was formally adopted in 1821, when the Norwegian parliament (Storting) approved a flag featuring a red field with a blue Nordic cross outlined in white. This design aligned Norway with other Scandinavian nations that had similarly adopted Nordic cross flags, yet maintained distinct color schemes that reflected each nation’s unique identity.

Symbolism of Colors and Elements

The Norwegian flag’s color scheme carries profound symbolic meaning that resonates throughout the nation’s history and culture. Red, the dominant color of the field, represents courage, bravery, and the bloodshed of Norwegian warriors throughout history. Red was historically associated with Norway’s maritime heritage and fishing traditions, colors that dominated the landscape and economy of this seafaring nation. The choice of red also connects Norway to the broader Scandinavian tradition, appearing in the flags of other Nordic nations and symbolizing a shared cultural and historical bond.

The blue cross is perhaps the most distinctive element of Norway’s flag. Blue holds multiple layers of significance in Norwegian culture and history. It represents the nation’s deep connection to the sea and sky—Norway’s geography is dominated by fjords, mountains, and extensive coastlines that have shaped its identity as a maritime nation for millennia. The blue also carries associations with loyalty, truth, and stability. The white outline of the cross provides visual contrast and clarity, ensuring the flag’s distinctive design remains visible at all distances. This design choice is both functional and aesthetic, making the Norwegian flag instantly recognizable and visually striking.

The Scandinavian cross itself is a defining feature shared by all Nordic flags. The cross design originated from Christian symbolism, with the vertical arm of the cross offset toward the hoist (the left side when the flag is viewed normally). This placement tradition dates back to medieval Nordic heraldry and church symbolism. The Nordic cross represents the shared Christian heritage of Scandinavian nations and their historical role as defenders of Christian Europe. In Norway’s case, the cross’s offset positioning and the specific color combination distinguish the Norwegian flag from those of Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland, each of which features its own unique color arrangement while maintaining the distinctive Nordic cross design.

Historical Changes and Evolution

The Norwegian flag’s design has remained remarkably stable since its formal adoption in 1821, demonstrating the enduring nature of its symbolism and the broad consensus around its representation of Norwegian identity. However, the flag’s significance and usage evolved dramatically throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly as Norway’s political status changed.

During the union with Sweden (1814-1905), the Norwegian flag could not be flown independently; instead, the combined flags of Sweden and Norway appeared together on shared vessels and state occasions. This restriction symbolized Norway’s subordinate political status within the union. The inability to display their own flag independently fueled Norwegian nationalist sentiment and became a powerful symbol of the desire for independence. As the 19th century progressed and Norwegian nationalism intensified, the flag became increasingly important as a symbol of national identity and the aspirations of a people seeking self-determination.

The union between Sweden and Norway was formally dissolved in 1905, a pivotal moment in Norwegian history. The peaceful dissolution of this union—achieved through negotiation rather than military conflict—was remarkable for its civility and diplomatic success. Following independence, Norway was able to proudly display its flag as the sole national emblem, no longer requiring the inclusion of Swedish symbols. This moment marked a watershed in Norwegian national consciousness, and the flag became a powerful symbol of newly won sovereignty and independence. The ability to display the Norwegian flag alone became a source of immense pride and national identity.

Notable Historical Moments

The Norwegian flag has flown during some of the most significant and dramatic moments in modern Norwegian and European history. During World War II, when Nazi Germany invaded and occupied Norway in 1940, the Norwegian flag became a powerful symbol of resistance and national identity. King Haakon VII of Norway fled to Britain with the government in exile, where the Norwegian flag continued to represent the nation’s independence and the Norwegian people’s determination to resist occupation. Norwegians displaying or honoring the flag risked severe punishment from Nazi occupiers, yet the flag remained an enduring symbol of Norwegian defiance and hope.

The liberation of Norway in 1945 was celebrated with the triumphant display of the Norwegian flag throughout the nation. The flag’s reappearance as the primary symbol of national authority marked the restoration of Norwegian sovereignty and independence after five years of brutal occupation. The emotional power of the flag during this period cemented its status as perhaps the most important national symbol in Norwegian culture and consciousness.

Throughout the latter 20th century, the Norwegian flag represented the nation’s growing prosperity, particularly following the discovery of vast oil reserves in the North Sea. Norway’s flag became synonymous with economic success, political stability, and the establishment of the Nordic welfare state model that became admired worldwide. The flag flew proudly at the 1994 Winter Olympics held in Lillehammer, Norway, showcasing the nation to a global audience and symbolizing Norwegian achievement and capability on the world stage.

Modern Significance and Cultural Importance

Today, the Norwegian flag holds profound significance in Norwegian society and culture. It is displayed with great respect on national holidays, particularly May 17th, Norwegian Constitution Day, when celebrations throughout the nation feature the flag prominently. Traditional Norwegian celebrations, parades, and civic ceremonies invariably feature numerous flag displays, demonstrating the flag’s deep integration into Norwegian identity and cultural practice. The flag appears on government buildings, embassies, and international sporting venues, representing Norwegian interests and identity on the global stage.

Norwegians display a particular attachment to their flag, with the design appearing on traditional clothing, handicrafts, and decorative items. The flag’s colors and cross design have been incorporated into contemporary Norwegian design, fashion, and cultural expressions, ensuring its continued relevance in modern Norwegian life. The flag serves as a connection between generations, linking contemporary Norwegians to their nation’s history and to ancestors who struggled for and ultimately achieved independence and national self-determination.

The Norwegian flag’s design remains unchanged in the modern era, reflecting the broad consensus around its representation of Norwegian values and identity. This stability contrasts with many nations that have redesigned their flags following major political transitions. For Norway, the flag’s consistency embodies the continuity of national identity across centuries of change, from union to independence, from occupation to liberation, and from agricultural to modern industrial and post-industrial society. The flag’s blue cross against red field stands as a timeless symbol of Norwegian courage, maritime heritage, and hard-won independence.

Sources and References

Norwegian Royal House Official Website. The Norwegian Constitution (as adopted and amended). Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Norway. Smith, Whitney (1975). Flags Through the Ages and Across the World. McGraw-Hill. Crampton, William G. (2008). The Complete Guide to Heraldry. Bounty Books. Znamierowski, Alfred (2013). The World Encyclopedia of Flags. Lorenz Books. Myhre, Jan Eivind (1994). “Norwegian Identity in the Nineteenth Century.” Scandinavian Journal of History, Vol. 19, No. 2. Lundestad, Geir (2003). East, West, North, South: Major Developments in International Politics 1945-2000. Oxford University Press. Derry, T.K. (1973). A History of Modern Norway 1814-1972. Oxford University Press. Norby, Leif & Trebilcock, Caroline (1977). The Scandinavian Heritage. Hippocene Books. Vexillology Database (International Flag Research Center). Flag usage and history standards according to Norwegian national law and the Norwegian Parliament archives.