#18: Haakon VII and Queen Maud
Haakon VII, born Prince Carl of Denmark, married Maud of Wales in 1896. She was the daughter of Britain’s King Edward VII, which strengthened ties between the two countries. In 1905, Haakon became king of Norway after its separation from Sweden. Maud adapted to her new role while maintaining connections to Britain. They had one son, the future Olav V. Their presence helped establish the new monarchy. Norwegians came to view them as symbols of unity during a formative period in the nation’s history.
