Time Periods
1900-2000 Into the Modern World
In the 20th century everything changed. Mechanisation revolutionised the economy. Iceland became a nation state. Women won civil rights. The population flooded into urban areas. The way of life changed beyond all recognition.
At the beginning of the 20th century, mechanisation of the fishing fleet began: rowing-boats were fitted with motors, and steam trawlers were bought. This marked the beginning of an economic revolution.
In 1904 the Icelanders were granted Home Rule. In 1918 Iceland became a sovereign state in personal union with the Danish crown, and in 1944 the modern Republic of Iceland was founded. Over the next few decades, the Icelanders gained control of their fishing grounds.
Shortly after 1920, the urban population first exceeded the rural population, and the trend has continued ever since. At the end of the 20th century the Icelanders numbered 280,000. Over 90% of them lived in urban communities, and more than 60% in and around Reykjavík.
The Key Object of this Time Period: The Blue and White
20th-Century Exhibits
Highlights of the Exhibition
- Electricity - Power Pole
- Urban Development - Fire Hydrant
- Economic Revolution - Paraffin Engine from 1902
- Nationalism and the Outside World - Trawl Wire Cutters
- Welfare and the Consumer Society - Photo Booth
- Arts and National Image - Plastic National Costume, 2000