Denmark: History

1397

The Union of Kalmar unites Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. Denmark is the dominant power in the union.

1814

Denmark cedes Norway to Sweden, while Iceland remains under Danish rule.

1945

Denmark recognizes Iceland's independence.

1949 Denmark joins NATO.

1952 Denmark becomes a founding member of the Nordic Council, which is established to further the mutual interests of Scandinavian countries.

1959

Denmark joins the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). 

1973

Denmark joins the European Economic Community (ECC), which later becomes the European Union.

2000 Denmark rejects the adoption of the euro. The Danish krone remains the national currency.

2008

Greenland referendum approves more autonomy from Denmark and a greater share of oil revenues coming from the island's coast. 

2011

Demark approves plans for an underwater tunnel from Lolland island to Germany's Fehmarn island, which will speed up transportation between Scandinavia and continental Europe.

2016

Prime Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen forms a coalition with the Liberal Alliance and the Conservatives.