According to archaeological research, Norway was inhabited as early as 14,000 years ago by hunters. Later farmers moved into the land and by 8 AD about 29 small kingdoms existed in Norway. Then the kings turned their attention to the seas and about AD 800 ships of war were built and sent on raiding expeditions and so began the era of the Vikings. In 1397 Norway became a single unit with Sweden and Denmark but finally after the end of The Napoleonic Wars in Norway became under the rule of Sweden. In 1905 the Norwegian people voted overwhelmingly for independence and that October it was ratified.

Norway is extremely mountainous and nearly one-third of it lies north of the Atlantic Circle. Norway's coastline is longer then any major coastline in the world(Encarta 96). The southern part of Norway contains the highest peaks of the Scandinavian mountain system. The

Nearly one fourth of the country is covered by forest. They support such animals as reindeer, foxes, hers, wolves, wolverines, lemmings, elk, deer, foxes otters and marten. There are many types of fish found in Norway. The common one's are Salmon, trout, graying, perch, pike, herring, cod, halibut, mackerel, and many other species.

A maritime climate prevails over most of the coastal islands and lowlands. Winters are mild and the summers are usually cool. There is heavy amounts of rain with an annual precipitation of about 76 inches(Encarta 96). Toward the center of the country the winters are cold and the summers are warmer.

west side of the country is characterized by the steep descent of mountains to the sea formed by glaciers. The eastern side of the country comprises of the more gradual eastern slopes of mountains. This is land of valleys and rolling hills. North Norway is a vast region of fjords and mountains. This part of the country contains some of the largest glaciers in Europe. The Glama is the longest river in Norway and is located in the southeast part of the country(Norway.com). Norway's largest lake is also located in the southeastern part of the country and is the Mjosa Lake.

Norway is a country of so many diverse cultures, land forms, businesses and wildlife. It is definitely a country

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