Beint í leiðarkerfi vefsins.
Time Periods
800-1000 The Dawn of the Icelandic Society
Due to its geographical position, Iceland remained uninhabited for longer than most other countries. It was settled about 1,100 years ago, mainly from Norway. The Icelanders established a society without a monarcy, with most power in the hands of local chieftains.
Lesa meira
1000-1200 Reign of Christian Chieftains
Around 1000 AD the Icelanders adopted Christianity. Soon a church was established with bishops, priests, schools and monasteries. People lived on farms and their main livelihood was animal husbandry.
Lesa meira
1200-1400 Under Norwegian Rule
The 13th century was a period of strife in Iceland, coming to an end between 1262-1264 when the Icelanders swore allegiance to the King of Norway. Over the following centuries the fisheries developed, and fish became the principal export commodity.
Lesa meira1400-1600 Under Danish Rule
The King of Denmark came to rule over Norway, and thus became King of Iceland. He forced the Icelandic church to become Lutheran.
Lesa meira1600-1800 Absolutism
In the years after the Reformation, Danish royal power over Iceland was extended. The Icelanders grew less free, but the king’s power also led to progress.
Lesa meira
1800-1900 Development of a Nation
During the 19th century the Icelanders made progress towards nationhood. The economy became more diversified as the schooner fishery developed. Trade expanded, and a bourgeoisie emerged.
Lesa meira
1900-2000 Into the Modern World
In the 20th century everything changed. Mechanisation revolutionised the economy. Iceland became a nation state. Women won civil rights. The population flooded into urban areas. The way of life changed beyond all recognition.
Lesa meira