Afvigelsen

Afvigelsen, also known as the "Deviation" or "The Departure," is a significant event in the history of the Kingdom of Denmark. It occurred on May 28, 1940, when King Christian X and the Danish government fled to Sweden during the German invasion of Denmark. This event marked the beginning of Denmark's collaboration with Nazi Germany, which lasted until the end of World War II.

The decision to leave Denmark was made after the German army, supported by the Danish military, occupied the country on April 9, 1940. The Danish government, led by Prime Minister Thorvald Stauning, believed that the king's presence in Denmark would be seen as a symbol of resistance against the Germans. Therefore, they decided to relocate the royal family to Sweden, where they would be safer and could continue to represent Denmark.

The king and queen, along with their children, left Denmark on May 28, 1940, and were initially taken to the Swedish island of Hven. From there, they traveled to Stockholm, where they were received by the Swedish government. The Danish government continued to function in exile in London, while the Danish people faced increasing German control and oppression.

The departure of the Danish royal family had significant political and social implications. It symbolized Denmark's willingness to collaborate with the Germans, despite the loss of sovereignty. The event also highlighted the importance of the monarchy in Danish politics and culture. After the war, King Christian X returned to Denmark and resumed his duties, but the memory of Afvigelsen remained a sensitive topic in Danish society.