Iceland

Iceland, an island in the North Atlantic just below the Arctic Circle, is the westernmost country of Europe. The population is descended from Scandinavian Vikings and Celtic immigrants, and is quite homogeneous with very insular institutions and traditions. Iceland has the world’s oldest functioning legislative assembly, which was founded in 930. Independent for over 300 years, it was subsequently ruled by Denmark and Norway, until it was granted limited home rule in 1874, and full independence in 1944. Iceland’s economy and prosperity is based on the fishing industry. The country has an extensive welfare system. Iceland became Christian by a decision of its assembly in the year 1000. It adopted the Lutheran Reformation. The Evangelical Lutheran Church is the national church, and is an integral part of the history and culture of the Icelandic people. There is a small Lutheran Free Church, and a Pentecostal church.