Why do we celebrate Liberation Day? – Clear voice

8 May is a special day for Norway. But what is the reason we celebrate?

World War II was over. And after five years of German occupation, Norway was free again. The Germans took control of Norway in 1940.

Norwegians had to do as the Germans ordered. If not, they were arrested. Many Norwegians were arrested. Some were sent to prison camps in Germany.

In 1943, the war began to go from bad to worse for Germany. The Russians won battles in the east. In 1944, soldiers from Great Britain, the United States and other countries managed to defeat the German military in France. On May 8, 1945, Germany gave up the war.

The German soldiers in Norway surrendered their weapons. Soon they were all sent back to Germany. Norway became free.

The king and government returned to Norway to celebrate. They had to flee when the Germans came. Then King Haakon and the queen drove around on the open street. People stood around and waved at them.

Since then, 8 May has been a day we celebrate. The day exists to celebrate that Norway became free, but also to honor our veterans.

Liberation Day is an official flag day. Several municipalities have different events. The day is mostly marked throughout the country.

Source: Folk og forsvar, Great Norwegian Lexicon and Klar Tale