Denmark Travel Guide - History

After the Viking period, the country was introduced to Christianity (965 AD) by Harald Bluetooth. Recognising the threat posed by neighbouring Germania, Harald ordered the construction of half a dozen fortresses and a defensive earthwork known as a Danevirke.

Defences held out only until the early 11th century at which time, the country was defeated by Canute the Great and made part of his empire along with Norway and England. Denmark and Norway remained united until 1814 along with Sweden also, with the three coming together in 1380.

The resulting country, whose borders were established by 1864, was comprised of a largely homogenous race who shared both language and cultural idiosyncrasies. WWI saw no participation by Denmark on account of its neutral stance however WWII brought Nazi occupation after the country declared its allegiance to the Allied countries.

When NATO was established in 1949, Denmark was highly instrumental in its founding and 23 years later, it took its place in the EU or what was then known as the EC and since that time, has remained a key player in international politics.