“Ja, Vi Elsker Dette Landet”
Syttende Mai (May 17th) is Norway’s Independence Day!
Inspired by the ideals expressed in the American Declaration of Independence (1776), US Constitution (1787) and the constitutions of the French Republic (1791, 1793, and 1795), Norway’s constitution was signed on May 17th, 1814. After centuries of rule by Sweden and Denmark, Norway’s independence was finally secured creating the nation state that we know and love. This day is celebrated nationwide with expressions of all the patriotism and tradition in a land filled with citizens proud of their heritage, culture and freedom. Thankfully, the Harris family had a front row seat for all of the festivities.
The traditional attire you see in these photos is called a “Bunad”. Each region and village have their own color pattern, style and design. It was so fun seeing all of the different areas represented!
“Yes, we love this country
as it rises forth,
rugged, weathered, above the sea,
with those thousand homes.
And as the fathers' struggle has raised
it from need to victory,
even we, when it is demanded,
for its peace will encamp (for defence).”
(Final verse from the Norwegian National Anthem)