Norway is a northern European country occupying the western and northern parts of the Scandinavian Peninsula. It"s a little larger then the size of New Mexico. It"s capital and largest city Oslo is located in the southeast corner of the country. The estimated population of 1995 is about 4, 357, 000 and is growing at about 0.5% (96 Encarta). .

             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 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.

             A maritime climate prevails over most of the coastal islands and lowlands. Winters are mild and the summers are usually cool.