Image for Norway's Constitution of 1814

Norway's Constitution of 1814

Norway’s Constitution of 1814 was a foundational legal document that established the country’s independence and set up its government structure. Drafted after Norway's separation from Denmark, it declared Norway an independent constitutional monarchy with principles of democracy, individual rights, and rule of law. The constitution also created a parliament (Storting) to represent the people and limit royal power. Although Norway entered into a union with Sweden later that year, the 1814 constitution remained largely in effect, serving as the basis for the country’s sovereignty and political identity.