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The Middle Ages

ca. 1050-1500

The Middle Ages were shaped by the church, royal power, and European trade. The period includes the Kalmar Union, the Black Death, and important laws like Jyske Lov.

Key Events

1167

Bishop Absalon builds the first fortress in Copenhagen

1219

The Danish flag (Dannebrog) falls from the sky at Lyndanisse (legend)

1241

Jyske Lov is issued - 'With law shall a land be built'

1348-1350

The Black Death kills a large portion of the population

1340-1375

Valdemar Atterdag rebuilds the Danish kingdom

1397

The Kalmar Union is formed between Denmark, Norway, and Sweden

1429

The Sound Dues (Oresundstolden) are introduced

1479

The University of Copenhagen is founded

Key Figures

Bishop Absalon

Founded Copenhagen, warrior and churchman

Valdemar Atterdag

Rebuilt Denmark after a period of crisis

Queen Margrethe I

Created the Kalmar Union

Erik Klipping

Signed the first coronation charter (1282)

Study Tips

  • 1Remember 1397 - the Kalmar Union is formed
  • 2Jyske Lov from 1241 - 'With law shall a land be built'
  • 3The Black Death struck around 1350 and killed perhaps half the population

Related Content

Other Periods

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