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The first bonds between Norway and the United States were formed when Leiv Eiriksson set foot on the American shore 1,000 years ago. The Viking sagas tell the story of the vision and bravery that led the Norse seafarers to journey across the Atlantic.
Centuries later, a wave of Norwegian immigrants followed, searching for economic prosperity along with greater opportunity. With them, they brought their ethnic identity, and, through hard work and innovation, they made distinct contributions to the development of modern America.
During the 20th century, ties between our countries have further developed
and strengthened.
As allies in World War II and later as founding members of NATO, we have
pursued our common goal of a peaceful world.
Together we face the 21st century as modern and prosperous nations. This brochure features many of the close political, economic and cultural links that exist between Norway and the United States.
These common bonds create a strong foundation for the future.
Norway counts on the United States as the fundamental partner for its security. A country of Vikings in ancient times, Norway now prides itself on having become an international peacekeeper
The
commitment to freedom, democracy and human rights is part of both Norway's and
the United States' common political and cultural heritage. Both countries'
constitutions are inspired by common values. Second only to the U.S.
Constitution as the world's oldest still in use, the Norwegian Constitution of
1814 is heavily inspired by the ideas expressed in the U.S. Declaration of
Independence and the U.S. Constitution.
Norway and the United States were close allies during World War II. Both countries were among the founders of the NATO Alliance in 1949. The cooperation in NATO reinforced U.S.-Norwegian ties and the common strategy for preserving peace under the looming threat of the Cold War. Although the Cold War is over, Norway still maintains strong trans-Atlantic ties and supports a continued U.S. presence in Europe. Norway is ready to take an active part in Europe's defense and security efforts now that the European Union is developing its own security and defense policy. However, the task of collective defense remains solely with NATO.
Peacekeeping
Both Norway and the United States are heavily involved in global peace efforts
and they have worked closely together in many international crises. Norway is a
major contributor to peacekeeping operations. Since 1947, Norway has
participated in more than 30 peace operations and provided more than 60,000
troops. During the Korean War, Norway contributed and staffed a field hospital.
In 1991, Norway participated in the multinational force in the Gulf. More
recently, the Nordic-American peacekeeping force in Macedonia was an
outstanding example of successful preventive action. The NATO operations in
Bosnia and Kosovo, where both the United States and Norway participate, testify
to the two countries' extensive and enduring commitment to European
security.
A major Norwegian achievement in recent years was the facilitation of the so-called "Oslo Channel," which brought new impetus to the peace process between Israel and the Palestinians.
Norwegian
mediators worked patiently and quietly to move the then-stalled peace process
back on track. The result was the Oslo Peace Accord, which was officially
signed at a memorable ceremony at the White House on September 13, 1993.
Norway is also involved as mediator or facilitator in peace and democracy efforts in countries such as Guatemala, Sudan, Sri Lanka and Colombia.
Human Security
Human security the safety of the individual is a measure of
global security. The proliferation of small arms and light weapons in conflict
areas is a major challenge. Since World War II, mass-produced hand weapons have
killed a far greater number of people than more advanced types of weapons. The
United States and Norway have established a working group to facilitate the
destruction of such arms in an effort to make the world safer. Destruction
activities are undertaken in various "hot spots," including areas in
Europe and Africa.
Armaments Cooperation
The close bilateral security and defense relations during the Cold War years
set the stage for a very close cooperation between the military forces of
Norway and the United States. A substantial part of Norway's military equipment
and weapons systems has been procured from the United States. Among the
U.S.-manufactured equipment in the Norwegian armed forces are fighter aircraft,
transport and maritime aircraft, and helicopters. Defense products manufactured
in Norway that are of interest to the United States include Penguin anti-ship
missiles, specially-designed fast-patrol boats, mine-clearing vehicles and
telemedicine medical assistance on the Internet.
Clearing Nuclear Waste Together
The United States and Norway cooperate on a number of projects, including
eliminating radioactive waste and improving nuclear safety in north-western
Russia. The Soviet era has left Russia's northwest region with the highest
concentration of nuclear reactors in the world. Approximately 300 reactors are
operating in the region, aboard nuclear-powered submarines and surface vessels,
and at the Kola nuclear power plant all generating nuclear waste at a
high rate. Due to lack of capacity, waste and nuclear material are stored in
hazardous ways in the region.
Norway has developed a plan of action focusing in particular on the management, transport and storage of radioactive waste in dismantling decommissioned Russian nuclear submarines. The United States has assumed the practical responsibility for dismantling a number of nuclear submarines from the Northern Fleet and for organizing the management of spent nuclear fuel and radioactive waste removed from the submarines. The United States and Norway are cooperating on a number of infrastructure projects, as well as in the Arctic Military Environmental Cooperation, which focus on solving pollution problems resulting from military activities. Both countries are also involved in various international fora, working to coordinate and facilitate extended international cooperation with Russia in this area.
Development Aid
Norway is among the countries that most actively assist developing countries in
their efforts to build a basic infrastructure that can promote stability and
economic growth. Norway currently allocates approximately 0,9 per cent of its
GNP to development cooperation, well above the 0,7 per cent target established
by the United Nations.
For several decades, Norway's efforts to aid developing countries have enjoyed broad popular support. Many donor countries, including Norway, increasingly realize that efforts to promote peace, democracy and human rights in conflict areas need to be integrated with development aid and humanitarian assistance. Coordinated efforts are necessary to improve the conditions for conflict resolution and prevent new conflicts from arising.
| "A more relaxed and natural friendship between countries and leaders than we were shown between Norway's King Harald V and United States President Bill Clinton would be difficult to imagine." This was the comment in a leading Norwegian newspaper after His Majesty The King hosted a luncheon for the President in the Royal Palace of Oslo during President Clinton's visit to Norway on November 12 1999. The state visit confirmed the strong bond between the United States and Norway, based on shared values, trans-Atlantic solidarity and mutual security through NATO. The president also greeted crowds of Norwegians, who welcomed him with tremendous warmth and enthusiasm. |
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Sea-based traditions, combined with advanced technology and a well-educated workforce, are among the many secrets behind Norway's enviable budget surpluses. Norway is currently the world's largest exporter of seafood and the second largest exporter of crude oil. It also has the fourth largest merchant fleet in the world. An international trading system based on common rules is of the greatest importance to Norway's open economy. Norway and the United States share a strong commitment to creating a stable global framework for trade.
 
 Popular exports from Norway: Jarlsberg cheese (top), Aluminum bars (center), and TH!NK, the electric car (below) |
Shipping and
fisheries have been mainstays of the Norwegian economy for centuries, but it is
oil and gas exploration that has contributed to a thriving Norwegian economy
since the 1970s. Today, approximately one-third of the country's export revenue
is derived from the sale of oil and gas, making Norway the second largest
exporter of crude oil after Saudi Arabia. Norwegian companies have been leaders
in developing the latest technology for oil and gas exploration, making it
possible to extract energy resources from below the deep waters of the North
Sea. Safety and sensitivity to the environment have been guiding principles in
this development. Norway's numerous mountains and waterfalls create an ample source of hydroelectric power, which has spurred production of metals and other energy-intensive products. However, Norway's industry does not solely focus on energy from traditional sources. Norwegian companies are recognized worldwide for their efforts to use alternative energy sources, a result of the population's general concern for the environment. The electric car TH!NK, developed and now produced in Norway, is one example of Norway's environmental focus. TH!NK was recently purchased by the Ford Motor Company. |
Bilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation
Norway enjoys close trading relations with the United States.
Approximately seven per cent of Norway's exports travel across the Atlantic to
the United States, making the United States the single most important market
for Norway outside of Europe. Oil accounts for more than half of Norwegian
exports to the United States. Metals, seafood, paper and machinery are other
export products. Automobiles and computer technology are major imports to
Norway from the United States. The United States is the largest foreign
investor in Norway. Approximately 25 per cent of foreign direct investment into
Norway comes from U.S. companies, mainly in the petroleum sector. Norway
maintains an economic presence in the United States, where Norwegian companies
own approximately 150 major enterprises. Norwegians are particularly visible in
Florida, where Norwegian cruise ships can be seen every day, and along the
western coast of the United States, where Norwegian investment has focused on
high technology and fisheries. Norwegian companies, which maintain large
engineering and manufacturing sites in Texas, are also major investors in the
United States' petroleum sector. In addition, Norway enjoys extensive
cooperation with the United States within the biotechnology, space exploration
and medical industries.
Cooperation in the field of technology between the United States and Norway has gained importance during the past few years. As a world leader in research and development as well as in computer technology, the United States has always been important to Norway and it is becoming more important with the growing integration of the global economy. In recent years there have been many examples of practical collaboration, particularly within information technology in its broadest sense, biotechnology, space-related activities and medicine.
Norway's largest companies
1. Statoil: Oil & gas, state owned
2. Norsk Hydro: Oil & gas, fertilizer, medicines
3. Kværner: Ship building, machinery, offshore
4. UNI Storebrand: Insurance, real estate
5. Orkla: Manufacturing, media
6. Telenor: Telecommunications
| EXPORTS FROM NORWAY TO THE UNITED STATES | IMPORTS TO NORWAY FROM THE UNITED STATES | ||||
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| Oil | 51,8 % | Road vehicles and other transport equipment | 19,4 % | ||
| Non-ferrous metals | 5,6 % | Office machinery and computers | 14,6 % | ||
| Road vehicles and other transport equipment | 5,6 % | Various finished goods | 9,7 % | ||
| Fish etc. | 4,8 % | Industrial machinery and equipment | 8,6 % | ||
| Paper and board | 3,6 % | Electrical machines | 7,7 % | ||
| Office machinery and computers | 3,0 % | Chemical products | 7,1 % | ||
| Iron and steel | 2,5 % | Scientific and technical instruments | 5,3 % | ||
| Electrical machinery and apparatus | 2,1 % | ||||
| Other industrial machinery | 2,1 % | ||||
| Scientific and technical instruments | 1,9 % | ||||
As the world's second largest oil exporter, the Norwegian Government invests surplus oil proceeds in a national petroleum fund.
Oil production on the Norwegian co ntinental shelf has grown from zero to approximately three million barrels per day in less than 30 years. Today, Norway ranks as one of the world's most significant oil suppliers outside the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), and the industry has been enormously important for the nation. As the world's second largest oil exporter, Norway sells more than half a million barrels per day in the United States alone.
U.S. Companies were
Norway's Oil Pioneers
American oil companies were among the pioneers when Norwegian waters were
opened for exploration in 1965. The first application to explore these waters
had been received from Phillips Petroleum in 1962, and the first well was
drilled by Exxon in 1966. Phillips made the first commercial discovery off the
coast of Norway in 1969 the Ekofisk field in the North Sea.
Phillips Petroleum and Mobil created a sound industrial foundation during the early years. In a very short period of time, these two companies transformed Norway into a substantial oil exporter. Later, oil and natural gas discoveries by a number of international and national oil companies added hugely to the Norwegian petroleum reserves. Ekofisk originally contained eight billion barrels of oil and large amounts of gas. The year 2000 marked 30 years since Phillips had declared that this field could be developed on commercial terms.
Joint Research
Over the years American oil companies and the oil service industry have played
a significant role in Norway's global oil and gas industry. This has been
achieved through technology transfer, innovation and extensive research. The
North Sea, with its harsh climate and the difficulty of finding cost-effective
and environmentally sound solutions, has provided U.S. oil companies with an
excellent training ground for new technology and state-of-the-art ways of
producing oil. Over the years, Norwegian and U.S. companies have cooperated on
several exciting joint research and development projects, with the goal of
finding viable ways to produce oil and gas in challenging weather conditions.
The results of many of these joint projects have proven to be crucial not only in meeting the challenges in the North Sea, but also in creating new oil provinces in deep waters throughout the world. Several U.S. oil service companies have claimed that customers in the North Sea have been their best clients, large ly because their demand for new technology has raised the technology bar and kept these companies internationally competitive. Norwegian companies have also benefited from this experience and today are among world leaders in several areas of the oil industry.
Utilizing Information Technology
The volatile offshore industry is highly dependent on the latest information
technology. From seismic exploration and evaluation to field development and
tail-end production, information technology makes oil less expensive to find
and to lift. Norwegian companies are the driving forces behind a wide variety
of innovations that have been reducing costs and shortening project lead times
around the world.
In this most global of businesses, Norwegian technology and expertise are highly visible wherever offshore prospects are promising, and may be found from Angola to Vietnam. With the Norwegian continental shelf reaching maturity as a petroleum province, producers Statoil and Norsk Hydro have acquired interests in approximately two dozen countries. Major Norwegian full-service technology firms not only provide niche products and services but they also routinely manage entire field developments from feasibility studies to the design, installation and maintenance of fixed, floating and subsea production systems.
Seismic Data
Norwegian maritime expertise has helped serve the oil industry well in seismic
data acquisition. Norwegian seismic companies, often in cooperation with
American partners, have achieved global renown for their technological
advancements.
These advancements and the development of methods for reservoir monitoring and characterization have made it possible to explore a relatively larger share of the oil present in the offshore wells in Norway than anywhere else. The national average for oil extraction is approximately 50 per cent, while Statoil expects to extract 70 per cent of the oil from its aging Statfjord field.
At Norsk Hydro's laboratory, seismic data is processed and projected to provide geophysicists the 3-D experience of "walking through" reservoirs in search of the most promising structures. New technologies help boost discovery rates in deep-water frontiers. Highly steerable drilling techniques enable operators to make the most of the knowledge.
Oil and the Economy
After 30 years of commercial activities on the Norwegian continental shelf, the
oil industry is making a considerable impact on the Norwegian economy. In
excess of 3 million barrels of oil per day are produced in a country with a
population of only 4.5 million people. Even so, this impact is smaller than
might be expected given that the oil and gas industry constitutes less than 15
per cent of Norway's GDP and approximately one-third of total exports.
With the considerable income earned by the Norwegian Government from offshore activities, the parliament decided in 1990 to establish a Petroleum Fund. The fund is intended to serve as a buffer against economic fluctuations in the short term. It is also meant to help address the more long-term challenges arising from a growing older population and a decreasing petroleum income. As of September 1999, the fund was valued at nearly 25 billion US dollars money which is entirely invested abroad. More than 25 per cent of the fund is invested in the United States.
Norway's extended coastline provides a natural starting point for a maritime tradition dating back more than 1,000 years.
Norway is Europe's most diversified
maritime nation and commands worldwide respect for its shipping expertise,
equipment, technical solutions and ability to exploit new market niches.
Norway's overall maritime economy an expanding cluster of industries
linked to shipping is the most comprehensive in the world, covering a
broad range of products and services.
The Norwegian merchant and offshore fleet comprises nearly 1,600 vessels of approximately 53 million dwt (dead weight tons), with an estimated value of 19.2 billion US dollars. Of these, approximately 1,000 vessels fly the Norwegian flag while about 600 are registered in other countries. Norwegian shipping companies are involved in a wide variety of international trades, ranging from cruise traffic to the transportation of commodities such as crude oil, liquid natural gas, chemicals, bulk commodities, containers and vehicles.
The United States Norway's Most
Important Market
Norwegian vessels are a familiar sight in every major port
in the United States. Among the cruise lines in Miami, the car carriers in Los
Angeles and the chemical tankers in Baltimore harbor, the Norwegian flag is a
frequent sight. The United States is the most important market for Norwegian
maritime transport companies. Forty per cent of the Norwegian-controlled
tonnage call on ports in the United States. These ships carry American exports
to foreign markets. They also bring foreign merchandise to America, American
vacationers to the sunny shores of the Caribbean and other cruise destinations,
and oil and gas to fuel American society. They do all this with a clear
commitment to quality, safety and environmental responsibility.
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Technological
Front-runners |
Norway's shipbuilding industry comprises more than 50 internationally competitive, technically advanced small and medium-sized shipyards. The industry focuses largely on ship repair and the construction of specialized vessels including roros, chemical tankers, advanced fishing vessels, reefers, offshore supply ships, high-speed catamarans, cable-laying ships and seismic exploration vessels.
Norway's ship-gear industry has developed in tandem with the steady growth of the Norwegian fleet. Sixty per cent of ship equipment is made for export, supplying ten per cent of the global market. Their innovation has made Norwegian producers front-runners in the development of systems for automation and monitoring, navigation and communication, propulsion, digital mapping, alarm, and fully-integrated bridge control.
Fishing Vessels
Another important niche is specialized equipment for coastal and deep-sea
fishing vessels. In a competitive market, durable, modern fishing gear is
essential for fishermen to find, harvest and transport high-quality fish as
efficiently as possible. Norwegian manufacturers supply a complete line of
equipment including sophisticated thruster systems and integrated maneuvering
systems, advanced hydraulic winches, net cranes, and state-of-the-art
fish-handling gear. Information and communication technology applications have
revolutionized the modern fishing industry. Norwegian companies are taking the
lead in supplying high-tech ship-to-shore communications systems, electronic
chart plotters, trawl-monitoring equipment, autopilots and navigational
instruments.
Safety Priority
The shipping industry's safety record has improved significantly in the past
decade, thanks in large part to technological advances and increased worldwide
regulation. However, technology cannot eliminate the human factor in maritime
safety, and accidents still occur. With this in mind, the Norwegian
classification society Det Norske Veritas (DNV) is advocating higher standards
at maritime training institutions and simulation centers. While supporting
safety-related technology, DNV's Total Safety Class concept focuses on the
interdependence of a vessel, its operational management and the education,
skills and safety attitudes of the crew.
Norway manages the resources of one of the most productive sea areas in the world.
The Norwegians have always relied on the sea to provide food. Norway's
coastal fishing waters extend over 27,000 square miles an area larger
than West Virginia. This vast marine territory presents tremendous
opportunities for increased returns from fisheries and aquaculture.
Norwegian waters are home to more than 200 fish and shellfish species, and
domestic producers supply more than 2,000 different kinds of top-quality
seafood products to all continents.
Sound Management
Norway is committed to the sound management of the stocks of
the sea. The country is home to a cluster of fisheries and marine-related
research institutes, such as the Institute for Marine Research and the
Norwegian Institute of Fisheries and Aquaculture. These organizations play a
leading role in national and international research programs and cooperate with
similar U.S. institutions. Research initiatives include programs to assess the
on-going impact of fisheries on the marine environment and to identify
potential new species for ocean harvesting and farming.
Norway has long traditions in the field of sustainable harvesting of marine resources. On most fisheries-management issues, the United States and Norway have common interests, both bilaterally and in the context of international organizations. The focus is on adapting the global catch capacity to the available resources and combating illegal fishing. One approach to reducing the catch capacity is to remove harmful subsidies from fisheries. On the high seas, both countries are interested in controlling illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing.
Farming Fish
Norwegian-farmed salmon has built an international reputation for itself, due
to the appetizing, rich red color of the salmon meat and great taste
qualities achieved through well-balanced feed ingredients and minimal use of
antibiotics. While the renowned Norwegian salmon and cod form the backbone of
the country's seafood export industry, other fatty fish such as herring,
mackerel and sardines, a variety of white-fish, and a broad range of gourmet
shellfish such as prawns and crabs are also harvested. Increasing attention is
being given to the farming potential for scallops in Norway due to a growing
worldwide market for this delicacy.
Norwegian spawning cod, known as skrei, is a winter phenomenon. Skrei, found in the icy waters off the Lofoten Islands, has become popular with leading chefs around the world. It is the chosen ingredient for international culinary competitions, including the Bocuse d'Or Championships held in France. Master chefs from a host of countries pit their culinary skills against each other for the much-coveted trophy.
The United States is still a promising market with a great potential for expansion. As American consumers become increasingly interested in following a wholesome diet, seafood's well-known positive health effect will, in the years to come, result in increased consumption of seafood. This will have a positive impact on the import of seafood from the clean waters off Norway.
The Nobel Peace Prize has been hailed as the greatest honor a person can receive in the world.
The
Swedish industrial magnate Alfred Nobel (18331896) left behind one of
history's most remarkable wills. His last wish was to establish a trust fund to
finance five annual prizes to persons or bodies who have "contributed to
the progress of humanity." One of these prizes is the world-famous Nobel
Peace Prize. Nobel gave the honor of awarding this prize to a committee
appointed by the Norwegian parliament the Nobel Committee. In addition
to the modest medal, the prizewinner receives about one million US dollars. The
Nobel Peace Prize remains closely associated with Norway and has been awarded
since 1901. The annual Peace Prize ceremony takes place in Oslo on December 10
each year and captures worldwide attention. Over 100 women and men have
received the Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts for world peace, international
fellowship and conflict resolution. Many famous Americans are among the
recipients of what is probably one of the world's most prestigious
awards.
Americans of Norwegian descent have not forgotten their Norwegian roots and make conscious efforts to preserve their heritage for new generations.
  Norwegians in Seattle celebrating May 17, Norway's Constitution Day (top). St. Olaf College, Northfield, Minnesota (below) |
Extensive cultural and educational exchanges are fundamental to the relationship between Norway and the United States. The strong personal ties that so many Norwegians feel toward the United States have made us especially receptive to American influences on our daily lives. American culture, particularly its more popular varieties, has been widely embraced in Norway. We see this occurring in music, food, clothing, television and film. American words are also being picked up and integrated into the Norwegian language. Of course, it helps that most Norwegians understand English. A substantial number of Americans are still familiar with the Norwegian language, thanks largely to "Norwegian America." Remembering their Norwegian roots, Americans of Norwegian descent have made, and continue to make, conscious efforts to preserve their heritage for present and future generations. At the same time, impulses from present-day Norway also reach America in a variety of fields. Norwegian Heritage |
The Norwegian-American
Historical Association, with its headquarters and archives at St. Olaf College
(Northfield, Minnesota), the Vesterheim Museum (Decorah, Iowa) and the Nordic
Heritage Museum (Seattle, Washington) are essential institutions for the
preservation and research on the history and culture of Norwegian America. In
recent years, renewed interest in documenting the Norwegian presence on the
East Coast, particularly in Brooklyn, New York, has led to a commemorative
exhibition at Ellis Island in 2000 and efforts to showcase this heritage on a
more permanent basis. Norwegian institutions such as the Emigration Museum near
Hamar and emigration centers in Stavanger and near Bergen complement U.S.
endeavors.
Heritage organizations such as Sons of Norway are preserving Norwegian cultural traditions in their general activities and through their support of museums, folk craft exhibitions (rosemaling, wood carving), genealogical research and festivals. The Norse Federation (1907) is a central operator in this field, whose main objective is to strengthen ties between Norway and "expatriates" in all parts of the world. Among the many Norwegian-American festivals in the Midwest, Norsk Høstfest, which is held in Minot, North Dakota, is one of the largest ethnic festivals in the United States. In recent years, similar festivals have risen in popularity in San Francisco and New York and other areas outside the Midwest.
Norwegian
Studies
Over 30 universities and high schools throughout the United
States offer courses in Norwegian language, literature and other
Norwegian-related subjects. Norway supports these courses through stipends,
book donations, financial assistance for conference participation, and support
for visiting lecturers and authors. The five colleges founded by Norwegian
immigrants in the Midwest Augsburg, Augustana, Concordia, Luther and St.
Olaf cooperate in a number of areas. Their most important project is the
Peace Prize Forum, an event arranged each February by the five colleges on a
rotating basis. This forum attracts thousands of participants, and lecturers
include Nobel Peace Prize laureates, their representatives and other people who
are influential in international peace efforts. Several other well-known
institutions of higher education, such as the University of California at
Berkeley and Harvard University, which do not have any specific Norwegian
connection, offer courses in Norwegian-related subjects. Many institutions
offer Ph.D. programs in Norwegian Studies. Although a number of the students
taking Norwegian-related subjects are of Norwegian descent, the majority are
not.
The Norwegian Teachers' Association of North America is working actively with Norwegian authorities to strengthen the teaching of Norwegian-related subjects at universities, colleges, high schools, and within the community in general. Many of the Norwegian-related subjects being taught are included within a Scandinavian Studies program. For approximately 100 years, the Society for the Advancement of Scandinavian Studies has been working to promote Scandinavian Studies at American academic institutions. At a non-academic level, courses in Norwegian language and literature are offered by a number of voluntary organizations located across the United States.
Educational Exchange
There are approximately 2,000 Norwegian students enrolled at
American universities each year. Although fewer in number, a steadily
increasing number of Americans have also studied in Norway, e.g., at the Oslo
Sum mer School and at various Master's Degree programs. Institutions such
as the Norway-American Association, the American-Scandinavian Foundation, the
U.S.-Norway Fulbright Foundation and the American Field Service are responsible
for thousands of Norwegians and Americans experiencing educational exchange
programs in the other country. Increasingly, bilateral exchange programs
between American and Norwegian universities and colleges have been created for
students and faculty. Similar programs have also been developed in the research
field, as illustrated by the well-established Peder Sæther Symposium at
the University of California at Berkeley.
Cultural
Connections
The United States, and in particular New York, viewed by many as the cultural
capital of the world, exercises an enormous attraction for Norwegian creative
talents, resulting in the emergence of a veritable colony of Norwegian artists.
Young Norwegian artists come to New York to establish networks, become inspired
and develop their creativity skills and attributes that many of them
bring with them back to Norway. Others remain in New York, more or less
permanently, and become a part of its international cultural scene. Soprano
Kirsten Flagstad became a leading performer at the Metropolitan Opera. Actress,
author and film producer Liv Ullmann and Jan Groth, an internationally renowned
artist, have also left their marks in New York. While most famous American
artists also have a following in Norway, the reverse is not always true.
Nevertheless, in addition to Henrik Ibsen, Edvard Grieg and Edvard Munch, who
continue to occupy an important place in the cultural life of America, some
contemporary Norwegian artists have become well-known to Americans. Among them
are pianist Leif Ove Andsnes, jazz musician Jan Garbarek, and the pop music
group M2M. In the visual arts, the painter Odd Nerdrum has made a name for
himself. In the literary field, the author Jostein Gaarder's Sophie's World
became an American bestseller as well. The Norwegian architect Sverre Fehn,
winner of the prestigious Pritzker Prize, has also wielded considerable
influence in his field in the United States.
The 1994 Lillehammer Olympics helped to bring modern Norway to the attention of Americans. The Norwegian authorities support a broad-based presentation of contemporary Norwegian art, culture and society with an eye to establishing and extending contacts in a variety of fields. Annual events such as the Norwegian Christmas festival at Union Station, Washington, D.C., Norway Run in Central Park, New York, and Ski for Light for blind and mobility-impaired adults, are examples in this respect.
Some initiatives represent joint efforts by the Nordic countries, such as the establishment in 2000 of Scandinavia House in New York City and the exhibition "Vikings: The North Atlantic Saga". Recently, attempts have been made to provide primarily Scandinavian communities in the United States with a television channel designed and programmed in a Scandinavian perspective. The Scandinavian Channel was formally launched in the fall of 1999.
Norwegian violin virtuoso, Ole Bull, packed concert halls across America in the 19th century.
As one of the most famous violinists of the 19th century, Ole Bornemann Bull (18101880) was a champion of Norway's national revival. From an early age he won great popularity in Norway and abroad with his improvisations based upon Norwegian folk tunes. In 1850, Ole Bull founded Norway's first official theater, Den Nationale Scene, in his hometown of Bergen.
Ole Bull made five extensive concert tours across the United States, where he lived for a number of years. During his concerts, he played popular music and compositions inspired by Norwegian folk music, endearing him to audiences wherever he went. In 1852, Ole Bull purchased 11,000 acres of land in Pennsylvania for the purpose of establishing a Norwegian immigrant settlement organized along socialist lines. Bull lacked business acumen and the project soon failed; however, his attempt transformed him into somewhat of a folk hero.
Norwegian contemporary literature can be found across the world.
In recent years Norwegian literary talent some remarkably young has flourished in the market. Many writers have caught the eye of foreign publishers and have had work translated into an impressive number of languages. In some countries their books have topped best-seller lists.
Jostein Gaarder (b. 1952), the Norwegian author of Sophie's World, captured the largest world-wide readership since Ibsen and Hamsun. Erik Fosnes Hansen (b. 1965) had an impressive international breakthrough with his second novel Psalm at Journey's End, a feat also accomplished by Linn Ullmann (b. 1966) with her first novel Before You Sleep.
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Concert tours in the United States and contact with the American public have played an especially important role for the young star pianist Leif Ove Andsnes (born in 1970). After successful debut performances in New York and Washington, D.C., in 1989, he received invitations from the leading U.S. orchestras to perform solo concerts. In 1992 he was awarded the Dorothy B. Chandler Performing Arts Award in Los Angeles. In recent years he has given annual performances in the United States, on several occasions with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra. Andsnes has also performed as a soloist with orchestras in Boston, Cleveland, Philadelphia, Atlanta, San Francisco and Detroit. Both the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and the Los Angeles Philharmonic have invited him to accompany them as a soloist on tours of Europe and Japan. These tours have added to his international reputation. On his most recent concert recital tour in spring 2000, he performed at 25 concerts from coast to coast, including a concert in Carnegie Hall. The respect he enjoys in the United States was clearly expressed in the prestigious Gilmore Prize awarded to him in 1997. Andsnes's position in the United States, together with America's high regard for the Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra, the cellist Truls Mørk and the trumpeter Ole Edvard Antonsen, has done much to open doors for other young Norwegian musicians. |
The Norwegian embassy and consulates general work closely with American politicians and Norwegian-American institutions to promote political, economic and cultural ties between the two countries.
The U.S.-Norway Forum
The U.S.-Norway Forum was established in Chicago in 1997 to nurture a dialogue
between the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Norwegian embassy and
consulates general, Norwegian-American organizations and educational
institutions. Its mission is to inform the American public about Norway and
Norwegian culture. The U.S.-Norway Forum convenes annually. It is chaired by
the Norwegian Ambassador to the United States and has more than 40 member
institutions.
Norway Caucuses in the
United States Congress
The Norway Caucus in the Senate and the Friends of Norway Caucus in the House
of Representatives were created in 1999 to foster relations between the United
States and Norway, address concerns of Norwegian-Americans, and promote
political, economic and cultural ties between the two countries. The Friends of
Norway Caucus in the House of Representatives has, as of July 2000, 44 members,
while the Norway Caucus in the Senate has eight. Congressmen David Minge (MN),
Earl Pomeroy (ND), Martin Olav Sabo (MN), John R. Thune (SD), and Senator Kent
Conrad (ND) founded and currently chair the caucuses.
Kids help others less fortunate all in a good day's work.
Every year since 1964, Norwegian high school students have volunteered to work for one day, cleaning houses, mowing lawns and selling home-baked goods all in exchange for donations benefiting youth projects in less fortunate parts of the world. The program Operation Day's Work is managed by the young people themselves. Over the years, several hundred thousand Norwegian high school students have raised more than three million US dollars for development projects in developing countries. In cooperation with the students of the Norwegian Operation Day's Work, the Norwegian embassy in Washington, D.C., and the White House Millennium Council, among others, USAID has launched a similar program in the United States. In the spring of 2000, students from thirty American pilot schools donated one day of work and raised more than 90,000 US dollars for an education and job training program in El Salvador. The project has already gained extensive public support and Operation Day's Work United States is now being expanded into a national program.
Smitten by "America fever," one-third of the Norwegian population crossed the Atlantic. While closely preserving their heritage, the Norwegian immigrants have left, and still leave, their distinctive mark on American politics, culture and economy.
 
Restauration (top) Cleng Peerson (below) |
In percentage of population
emigrating to the United States, Norway is second only to Ireland. The first
organized Norwegian emigration started on July 4, 1825, with the departure of
the sloop Restauration from Stavanger on the southwest coast of Norway. It
carried the first group of immigrants, numbering fifty-three in total. On
October 9, they landed at the port of New York, where their agent and guide,
the enigmatic and adventuresome Cleng Peerson, the "Peer Gynt of the
Prairie," welcomed them. These forerunners of Norwegian emigration, the
"Sloopers," as they are generally called, heralded the beginning of a
major overseas exodus and a celebrated historical experience that has now
lasted for 175 years. Settling in the Midwest Not until Norwegians had established secure farming communities in the Midwest and become prepared to receive and assist newcomers, did group migration become an annual occurrence. Beginning in 1836, parties of Norwegian peasants crossed the Atlantic every year, encouraged by the good news in letters from America and other communications sent back home. |
Prosperous
Communities
Norwegian immigrants and their descendants became significant players in a
central drama of American history: the movement westward and the conquest of
western lands. They joined an arduous march from the southern tip of Lake
Michigan, and by 1900 reached eastern Montana. Within this vast region, which
represents the heartland of the Norwegian-American historical experience, they
formed prosperous agrarian communities and became wedded to the land. This is a
source of great pride among present-day Norwegian-Americans.
| In 1847, a flourishing
Norwegian-American press began modestly in the pioneer Muskego settlement in
eastern Wisconsin with the publication of Nordlyset (Northern Lights). The
organized Lutheran Church among Norwegians in American also had its modest
beginnings in that same decade. In its various manifestations, the
Lutheran Church became the main institution established by Norwegian
immigrants. It grew strong in America's environment of religious freedom and
left a powerful legacy. "America
fever" |
|
In addition to their main areas of settlement in the upper Midwest, Norwegians founded a viable settlement in Bosque County, Texas, worked in mining operations in the Far West, and joined the Mormon farming communities of Utah. They formed colonies on the Pacific coast and the eastern seaboard. Despite their rural and small-town orientation and their dedication to farming as a way of life, vibrant colonies of Norwegians emerged in metropolitan centers such as Brooklyn, Chicago, Minneapolis and Seattle.
Urban Development
As Norway became more modern and more
people emigrated from the country's urban areas, a transfer of skills took
place. Norwegian-trained engineers, architects and other professionals helped
to build America. Men like Gunvald Aus and Kort Berle contributed to the
skyscraper building techniques, Ole Singstad designed the Holland Tunnel that
runs under the Hudson River and Joachim Giaver was chief engineer for the 1893
Chicago World's Fair.
   Kon-Tiki, the balsawood raft, which took the explorer, Thor Heyerdahl, from Peru to Polynesia in 1947 (top).The football hero, Knut Rockne (below left). Stein Eriksen, the olympic slalom skier (below right) |
To earn a living in
the cities, men found a niche in construction and carpentry. Some continued
familiar trades in shipping on both coasts and on the Great Lakes, while others
became deep-sea fishermen in the Pacific Northwest. Although many women worked
as domestics, others found new opportunities in America. In the United States
women could obtain a higher education. For example, Ingeborg Rasmussen
completed her medical training in 1892 and practiced medicine in Chicago. Agnes
Mathilde Wergeland became a professor of history at the State University in
Laramie, Wyoming, in 1902. For a young woman, the act of emigration itself
could be considered a feminist statement and a declaration of
independence. Portraying the
Pioneers Garrison Keillor, radio personality and author of the best-selling book Lake Wobegon Days, has thrown a humorous and satirical light over the Nordic heritage in the Midwest. Within the media, radio and television personality Eric Sevareid was a voice that all of America came to know and love. Changing Politics |
Other Norwegian-Americans played important roles in U.S. politics. Andrew J. Volstead from Minnesota headed the committee that formulated the National Prohibition Act popularly (or not so popularly) called the "Volstead Act." Hubert Humphrey and Walter Mondale became candidates for the White House. Warren Christopher was Secretary of State, and Earl Warren and Henry Jackson were also prominent politicians. Andrew Furuseth, a famous trade unionist, was a leader of the Sailors' Union who devoted his life to safeguarding the rights of seamen.
| "Bygdelag" Rural Norwegian-Americans gathered in the "bygdelag," or old-home society, that emerged on the immigrant scene around 1900. The different societies found unity in a common cultural background, which was displayed most prominently in the public celebrations of May 17 that began in the 1870s. Norway's national day remains the most identifiable Norwegian-American symbol. The annual May 17 parade in New York is the second largest celebration after Oslo's. Sports Legacy Today, the late Karsten Solheim's Ping golf clubs have become a best-selling brand. Most likely it is only the older generation who remembers the football hero Knut Rockne and his legendary team at Notre Dame University, who revolutionized American football. Jan Stenerud is a more recent football legend. Stenerud earned his fame after the Second World War and is included in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Figure-skater queen Sonja Henie became famous in two fields when she later became a successful Hollywood star. |
 Sonja Henie |
Innovation
Some American Nobel laureates have a Norwegian background: agronomist Norman E.
Borlaug and physicist Ivar Giaever have made important contributions to
American research. Through his exploratory voyages, Polar expert Colonel Bernt
Balchen made an indelible impression upon American aviation history.
Norwegian-Americans can also be credited with some notable brand names. The amateur sailor learns to pull the rope on the outboard motor developed and manufactured by Ole Evindrud, whose Evinrude motor became a household name around the world. And the Hilton Hotel empire, considered by many to be the most American of hotel chains, bears the name of a farm outside of Oslo, where the family of the founder Conrad Hilton originated.
 |
From World War II to today, close bonds have been created between the Norwegian Royal Family and the United States. For H.M. King Harald V, the United States has provided significant childhood memories that date back to World War II. The Royal Family of Norway has had close ties with the United States ever since Crown Princess Märtha and her three children, including the future King Harald, lived in exile on Pooks Hill outside Washington, D.C., during the five years Norway was occupied by Germany. A warm friendship between the American President and the Norwegian Royal Family developed. Like his father King Olav, King Harald, with Queen Sonja, went on an extensive tour of the United States after ascending the throne. Their son, the present Crown Prince Haakon, studied political science and related subjects in the United States, at the University of California at Berkeley, from 1996 to 1999. |
Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum in Decorah, Iowa, showcases the evolution of Norwegian America.
Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum showcases a large
collection of cultural artifacts, including an open-air section devoted to
presenting the Norwegian pioneer experience. "Vesterheim" is an old
Norwegian word for "the lands of the West." Former Director Marion
Nelson sparked a revival in Norwegian folk arts by sponsoring courses and
exhibitions, and turned Vesterheim into a leading ethnic museum in the United
States.
The museum, which originated in 1877 when the Luther College faculty began collecting pioneer objects, is now keenly focused on outreach and traveling exhibits. Inspired by the Norse-American Centennial in 1925, a large gift of artifacts from Norwegian museums, coordinated by Anders Sandvig, greatly expanded the collection. The Norwegian-American community has also provided significant financial support.
Vesterheim Genealogical Center is located in Madison, Wisconsin.
Helge Ingstad rediscovered Vinland, proving that the Vikings arrived in America 500 years ahead of Columbus.
| Together with Thor Heyerdahl, Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen, Helge Ingstad is the most famous of all the Norwegian 20th-century explorers and adventurers. Together with his archeologist wife Anne Stine, Ingstad won international acclaim by discovering the remains of the Viking settlement L'Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland. His findings were conclusive proof that the Vikings were the first to arrive to America, 1000 years earlier. At the age of 100, Ingstad was present at the opening of "Vikings: The North Atlantic Saga," a major exhibition at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, and the official catalog was dedicated to him. Ingstad has published a number of books describing his expeditions, which have won much acclaim for their lucid and engaging prose. |
|
Norway had the highest percentage of its population emigrating to America, second only to Ireland. Now there are more Norwegian-Americans than there are Norwegians in Norway.
Data from the 1990 federal United States census reveals that 127 congressional districts have at least one per cent Norwegian-American residents of all ages.
North Dakota remains the state with the highest share of its population claiming Norwegian ancestry 29,6 per cent. Nearly 52 per cent of all Norwegian-Americans reside in the Midwest, with Minnesota having the largest number, representing 17,3 per cent of the state's population. Wisconsin ranks second. 32,5 per cent of all Norwegians live on the West Coast. However, California ranks third after both Wisconsin and Washington state. Norwegian-Americans also have a presence in Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Illinois and New York. You can find significant concentrations of Norwegian-Americans in metropolitan areas such as Tampa/St. Petersburg and Houston.
Norwegian-Americans typify an "old" immigrant group the majority have grandparents or great-grandparents who were born in Norway. The census lists 3,869,395 Americans as first-or second-generation Americans of Norwegian descent; 65,1 per cent are first-generation. There are in all eight generations of descendants of the pioneer immigrants of 1825.
| Official name: | The Kingdom of Norway | Capital | Oslo, 502,867 inhabitants as of 1 January 1999 |
| System of government: | Constitutional monarchy | Religion | |
| The Royal Family: | Harald V, King of Norway, born 1937. Sonja, Queen of
Norway, born 1937. Haakon Magnus, Crown Prince of Norway, born 1973. Märtha Louise, Princess of Norway, born 1971 |
State Religion | 87 per cent of the population belongs to the (Evangelical Lutheran) Church of Norway |
| Main religious groups outside Church of Norway, January 1999 | Islam:
18,9 per cent Pentecostalists: 18,5 per cent Roman Catholics: 16,9 per cent Lutheran Free Church: 8,8 per cent Jehovah's Witnesses: 6,3 per cent Methodists: 5,5 per cent Baptists: 4,4 per cent Missionary Alliance: 3,4 per cent Adventists: 2,6 per cent |
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| Area, total | 148,708 sq. miles | ||
| excl. Svalbard and Jan Mayen | 125,003 sq. miles | ||
| Sea territory | Norwegian exclusive economic zone: 362,934 sq. miles. Svalbard fisheries protection zone: 320,463 sq. miles. Jan Mayen fisheries zone: 115,830 sq. miles | ||
| Population | 4,479,309 as of 1 January 2000 | Percentage of persons with completed higher
education Here education is grouped regardless of whether the person has completed a 7-year primary or 9-year primary and lower secondary education. |
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| Life expectancy at birth, 1998 | Men: 75.54 Women: 81.28 |
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| Monetary unit | Norwegian kroner, NOK 1 USD=8.71 NOK as of 26 July 2000 |
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| Length of coastline | 13,338 miles including fjords | GDP, 1998 | 126,958 million USD |
| Highest mountain | Galdhøpiggen. 8,100 ft | GDP per capita, 1998 | 28,548 USD |
| Borders with other countries | Sweden: 1,006 miles Finland: 452 miles Russia: 122 miles |
Computer and Internet access, 1999 | Access to computer at home: 67 per cent Access to Internet at home: 36 per cent |
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Average Temperatures for
1961 1990 (Fahrenheit) |
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| Gross domestic product, by type of activity | Energy consumption excl. energy sectors and ocean transport | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Foreign trade by region, 1998:
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| Composition for the period 19972001 (no. of representatives): Total number of |
Labour Party, 65 Progress Party, 25 Christian Democratic Party, 25 Conservative Party, 23 Centre Party, 11 Socialist Left Party, 9 Liberal Party, 6 Other, 1 |
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| Media, 5
largest newspapers (net cirulation 1998) |
Verdens Gang (Oslo),
364,612 Aftenposten (Oslo), 288,078 Dagbladet (Oslo), 206,357 Bergens Tidende (Bergen), 94,450 Adresseavisen (Trondheim), 88,802 |
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| * Indirectly
measured banking and financial services, value added tax, investment tax and other product taxes, net and statistical deviations. |
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| Norwegian Embassy Washington, D.C. | www.norway.org |
| US-Norway Forum | www.norway.org/education/us-norway.html |
| Norway Caucuses in the U.S. Congress | www.norway.org/politics/caucus.html |
| Norwegian Trade Council in North America | www.ntcusa.org |
| Norwegian-American Chamber of Commerce | www.norway.org/nacc/ |
| Norwegian Seafood Export Council | www.seafood.no |
| Norwegian Tourist Board, US Office | www.norway.org/travel |
| Norwegian Mission to the UN | www.norway-un.org |
| US Embassy, Oslo | www.usa.no |
| Norway's Royal Family | www.kongehuset.no/english |
| Stortinget (the Norwegian parliament) | www.stortinget.no/english |
| Royal Ministry of Foreign Affairs | www.odin.dep.no/ud/engelsk |
| ODIN (the Norwegian Government website) | www.odin.dep.no/odin/engelsk |
| Vesterheim Museum | www.vesterheim.org |
| Norge.no (public sector information and services on the Internet) |
www.norge.no/english |
| Nobel Peace Prize | www.nobel.no/indexen.html |
| How to trace your ancestors in Norway | www.odin.dep.no/odin/engelsk/om_odin/p10000976/index-b-n-a.html |
To the Ministry's home page, http://odin.dep.no/ud/
