Norwegian Neutrality in the Inter-War Years

摘要

During 'the great war Norway as a young small insignificant state on the outskirts of Europe remained neutral'. This policy was chosen for several reasons. Following the war Norway placed great emphasis on the 'League of Nations' and hoped that this new organization would settle future disputes between states without states having to resort to war. At the same time Norway openly stated that she would not enter bilateral or multilateral defense agreements with any other states and would remain neutral once again if future war should erupt on the European continent. In spite of the political developments in Europe in the 1930's this policy was not altered. As World War 2 began in September 1939 Norway once again declared herself neutral. Through the winter of 1939/40 Norway came more and more into the interest of the great powers. The British boarding of the German ship 'Altmark' in Norwegian waters in February 1940 convinced Hitler that Norway must be occupied and planning for a German attack was intensified. On April 9 1940 Germany attacked Norway. After a two-month campaign Norway capitulated to Germany and Norway was occupied for the remainder of the war. This SRP will identify and prioritize the key issues causing the Norwegian government to remain neutral during the inter-war years.