Medieval Norway

Medieval Norway, roughly from the 11th to the 15th century, was a time of kingdoms, vikings, and cultural growth. Norwegians transitioned from a pagan society to Christianity, which shaped their laws and traditions. The era saw the rise of powerful chieftains and kings, like Harald Fairhair, who unified the land. Trade expanded, especially along coastlines, connecting Norway with Europe and beyond. Society was organized into rural communities and noble classes, with a strong maritime and farming economy. Medieval Norway also experienced periods of conflict, internal power shifts, and later, union with Denmark, influencing its development into a distinctive Scandinavian nation.