The Icelandic language has changed very little since the 9th century. Like other Scandinavian languages, it is descended from Old Norse. However, due to Iceland’s isolation from mainland Europe, it has rarely deviated from its origins. Modern Icelanders can actually read ancient texts and artifacts without needing special training. There are 24 standard letters in…
Tag: Iceland
Fun Fact: The Fishing Wars Between Iceland and England
During the 20th century, Iceland and the United Kingdom had several disagreements about fishing rights in the North Atlantic. These bloodless “Cod Wars” both ended in Icelandic victory.
(Not So) Fun Fact: When the British Invaded Iceland
Iceland was officially neutral during World War II but was invaded by the British and occupied for the majority of the war until being transferred to the Americans. The reasoning for this is because Germany wanted Iceland. A month before the British invaded, they had taken over Denmark in which they were in a political…
Fun Fact: A Daughter Named Hell?
An Icelandic couple in 2017 wanted to name their daughter Hel (which inspired the English word hell) after the Norse goddess Hela. Iceland actually approves or rejects all names in the country and denied the parents.
Fun Fact: Name Restrictions in Iceland
New parents in Iceland must get personal approval by a government committee if they choose to give their child a “new” name. If a child is named something outside the approved list (over 1,700 names for boys, and over 1,800 names for girls) then it is given consideration as long as it fits Icelandic spelling…