Driftsatte

Driftsatte is a Norwegian term referring to individuals who have been involuntarily relocated or displaced, often due to government policies, land reforms, or forced resettlement programs. The concept originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly during periods of industrialization and agricultural modernization in Norway. These policies aimed to improve infrastructure, urban development, or economic efficiency but frequently resulted in the displacement of rural communities, farmers, and small landholders.

The term "driftsatte" (literally "drifted away") was used to describe those who were forcibly moved from their ancestral lands, often without adequate compensation or support. This practice was most prominent in the 1870s and 1880s, when large-scale land consolidation projects, such as the *Storvika* and *Østfold* reforms, targeted rural areas. Many families were evicted to make way for state-owned farms, industrial zones, or military training grounds, leaving them with little choice but to relocate.

The experience of driftsatte has been documented in historical records, oral traditions, and later studies, highlighting the social and economic hardships they faced. Some resettled individuals struggled to adapt to new environments, while others were forced to sell their land at unfair prices. The term remains significant in Norwegian history, often used in discussions about land rights, rural displacement, and the broader impacts of state-led development policies.

Today, the legacy of driftsatte continues to influence debates about land ownership, compensation, and the preservation of cultural heritage in Norway. Some communities have sought restitution or recognition of their historical displacement, while others have preserved traditions tied to their former homelands. The concept also serves as a case study in the ethical implications of forced resettlement in modern societies.