The Nordic Countries Five Nations in Northern Europe make up the Nordic or Scandinavian countries: Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland.

The Nordic Countries Sweden and Norway share the same land mass the Scandinavian peninsula and both were influenced by the Vikings. The Vikings lived in Sweden and Norway for centuries and invaded much of Europe and explored North America.

The Nordic Countries After the Vikings settled down in the area, Sweden and Norway became a monarchy. Sweden controlled Norway in 1814, but in 1905 Sweden recognized Norway's independence.

The Nordic Countries Sweden and Norway remained neutral in both World Wars, however Germany invaded and occupied Norway in World War II.

The Nordic Countries Although Swedish and Norwegian are different languages , both are similar and therefore they can communicate with one another. In Sweden and Norway the official state religion is Lutheranism. Lutheran Church in the capital Stockholm, Sweden

The Nordic Countries Sweden and Norway are less densely populated because of their climates. About 80% of Swedes and 75% of Norwegians live in Urban areas. The Capital of Norway Oslo.

The Nordic Countries Most Swedish and Norwegians enjoy outdoor sports year round. Both Ice skating and skiing are very popular along with soccer and other winter sports. Sweden and Norway both have Constitutional monarchies, along with prime ministers. The capital of Sweden, Stockholm is its biggest city were many people enjoy ice skating.

The Nordic Countries Sweden and Norway are Welfare states, which use their taxes to provide service for their citizens. Such as free health care and money for families with children. Sweden has highly industrialized country with design/clothing stores such as IKEA and H & M. Sweden joined the European Union in 1995, but Norway decided not to join.

The Nordic Countries Finland has fought for its independence since 1155. Finland was first a part of Sweden, then Russia, but in 1917 Finland gained its independence. Although Finland had to fight off two invasions of Russia during World War II. Capital of Finland Helsinki

The Nordic Countries Finland culture is heavily influence by Sweden since it controlled Finland until 1809. Finland’s two official languages are Finnish and Swedish. Most people in Finland are Finnish with the largest minority group being the Swedes. The Sports of Finland are cross country skiing, ice hockey, and reindeer races.

The Nordic Countries Finland is a democratic republic. ( Constitutional Democracy) Denmark occupies the Jutland peninsula and over 400 small islands covering the peninsula. The early history of Denmark was controlled by the Vikings. Iceland, once controlled by Denmark, gained its independence in 1814.

The Nordic Countries Danish is spoken in Denmark and Icelandic is spoken in Iceland. Denmark is a constitutional monarchy. The Prime Minister of Denmark is the head of the government. The Danish Monarch (Queen) mainly has ceremonial duties. Both Denmark and Iceland have welfare systems in place. Queen of Denmark Margrethe II Capital of Denmark Copenhagen

The Nordic Countries Iceland is a republic. The people of Iceland elect a president who serves a four year term and has limited powers. Iceland also has a prime minister and a cabinet who perform executive functions. President of Iceland – Olafur Ragnar Grimsson The capital of Iceland- Reykjavik