Which Country Formally Ruled Iceland? From Norway to Denmark to Independence

Iceland's path to sovereignty spans centuries of external rule:

1. 1262–1380: Independent commonwealth submits to the Norwegian crown (Old Covenant).
2. 1380–1814: Norway enters the Kalmar Union with Denmark; Iceland comes under Danish rule.
3. 1814: Treaty of Kiel transfers Norway to Sweden, but Denmark retains Iceland.
4. 1874: Denmark grants Iceland a constitution and limited home rule.
5. 1918: Act of Union makes Iceland a fully sovereign kingdom in personal union with Denmark (shared monarch, Danish foreign policy).
6. 1944: Following a referendum (98% in favor), Iceland severs ties with Denmark and becomes the Republic of Iceland on June 17, 1944.

Thus, Denmark was the last sovereign power before full independence, ruling formally for over 500 years (1380–1944).