The Great Northern War (1700–1721) significantly impacted Norway, as it was a key part of Denmark-Norway’s struggle against Sweden for dominance in the Baltic region. The war pitted a coalition of Denmark-Norway, Russia, and Poland-Saxony against Sweden, which was led by the ambitious King Charles XII. For Norway, the conflict was part of its union with Denmark, and it saw several key military campaigns unfold on Norwegian soil.
At the start of the war in 1700, Denmark-Norway sought to reclaim territories lost to Sweden in earlier conflicts, including Scania and parts of Norway. However, initial efforts were halted when Charles XII forced Denmark to withdraw temporarily from the war. When Denmark-Norway re-entered the conflict, Norway became a focus of Sweden's military campaigns.
In 1716, Charles XII invaded Norway, targeting Christiania (modern-day Oslo) but was forced to retreat after a failed siege. He returned in 1718 for a second invasion, this time attacking the fortress at Fredriksten in southeast Norway. The siege ended abruptly when Charles XII was killed by a stray bullet, marking a turning point in the war. His death led to Sweden’s eventual defeat and peace negotiations.
For Norway, the war ended without major territorial losses. Under the Treaty of Frederiksborg in 1720, Denmark-Norway maintained its control over its Norwegian territories. The Great Northern War marked the decline of Sweden as a European great power, while Denmark-Norway solidified its influence in Scandinavia, especially over Norway’s future.
The war is remembered in Norwegian history for its defense against Swedish invasions and the pivotal role it played in preserving the integrity of the kingdom.