Birgit Dalland, Norwegian politician (d. 2007)

Birgit Ellenora Johanne Dalland: A Centenarian Figure in Post-War Norwegian Politics

Birgit Ellenora Johanne Dalland (5 February 1907 – 30 May 2007) was a prominent Norwegian politician whose extensive life spanned nearly the entire 20th century. Her political career was deeply intertwined with the Communist Party of Norway (Norges Kommunistiske Parti, NKP), particularly during the crucial immediate post-World War II period. Dalland's engagement in the political landscape of Norway saw her serve as a deputy representative to the Norwegian Parliament, known as the Stortinget, representing the vital constituency of Bergen during the legislative term from 1945 to 1949.

Political Affiliation and Post-War Context

Birgit Dalland's affiliation with the Communist Party of Norway (NKP) places her within a significant chapter of Norwegian history. The NKP gained considerable public admiration and influence immediately after World War II due to its substantial involvement in the Norwegian resistance movement against the Nazi occupation. This led to a historical peak in their electoral success during the 1945 general election, where the party secured 11.9% of the national vote and won 11 seats in the Stortinget. This period was marked by a strong desire for national reconstruction, social reform, and a lingering anti-fascist sentiment. Dalland's service as a deputy representative during this pivotal term underscores her direct involvement in the parliamentary efforts to rebuild and redefine Norway in the wake of immense wartime devastation.

Understanding the Role of a Deputy Representative in the Norwegian Parliament

In the Norwegian parliamentary system, the role of a deputy representative, or "vararepresentant," is essential for maintaining the continuous operation and representation within the Stortinget. These individuals are elected simultaneously with the regular, directly elected members from each electoral district. A deputy representative is called upon to step into the Parliament and assume full parliamentary duties whenever a primary representative is temporarily absent due to reasons such as illness, official engagements, or leave. This ensures that every constituency remains continuously represented in legislative proceedings, allowing the Stortinget to function without interruption. Birgit Dalland, as a deputy representative for Bergen from 1945 to 1949, was thus prepared to contribute to law-making and political debate during Norway's critical post-war reconstruction phase.

A Lifespan Spanning a Century of Change

Birgit Dalland's remarkable lifespan, from 1907 to 2007, allowed her to witness nearly a full century of transformative global and national events. Born in the early 20th century, she lived through two World Wars, the Great Depression, the Cold War, and the profound technological and social advancements that reshaped modern society. Her active political involvement in the immediate aftermath of World War II, a period characterized by intense national rebuilding efforts and the emerging geopolitical dynamics of the Cold War, provides a unique historical perspective on the political and social currents that defined post-war Norway. Her dedication to public service through the Communist Party during such a formative era reflects a deep commitment to her political ideals.

Frequently Asked Questions about Birgit Ellenora Johanne Dalland

Who was Birgit Ellenora Johanne Dalland?

Birgit Ellenora Johanne Dalland (1907–2007) was a Norwegian politician affiliated with the Communist Party, best known for her service as a deputy representative to the Norwegian Parliament (Stortinget) from 1945 to 1949.

Which political party did Birgit Dalland represent?

She was a politician for the Communist Party of Norway (Norges Kommunistiske Parti, NKP).

What was her specific role in the Norwegian Parliament?

Birgit Dalland served as a deputy representative ("vararepresentant") for the constituency of Bergen. This meant she was elected to serve in the Stortinget in the absence of a primary representative from her district.

During which period did she hold her parliamentary position?

She served during the parliamentary term of 1945–1949, a crucial period following World War II for Norway's reconstruction and political reorientation.

Why was the 1945-1949 term particularly notable for the Communist Party in Norway?

The 1945 general election marked the peak of the Communist Party's political influence in Norway. Due to their significant role in the WWII resistance movement, the NKP garnered substantial support, securing 11.9% of the national vote and 11 seats in the Stortinget during that election.