Swedish invasion of Norway (1716)

The Swedish invasion of Norway (Swedish: Svensk invasion av Norge 1716, Norwegian: Svensk invasjon av Norge 1716) in 1716 was led by Charles XII of Sweden and took place during the Great Northern War. Despite taking the Norwegian capital of Christiania, the Swedes were unable to capture the crucial fortresses of Akershus and Fredriksten. Furthermore, they were crippled by logistical issues and harsh winter conditions. With their supply lines cut off, the Swedes were forced to abandon the campaign in late June, having failed to achieve any of their objectives.

An enterprise to land on Zealand through a frozen Øresund (the Sound) failed, and Charles shifted his focus to Norway to cripple Denmark-Norway’s position. In early February, the Swedes crossed the border and defeated a Norwegian force near Høland, then halted for several days because of a heavy snowstorm before advancing toward Christiania with General Mörner’s reinforcements. Norwegian commander Barthold Heinrich von Lützow, deeming the city indefensible, withdrew, allowing the Swedes to enter Christiania unopposed in early March after skillful maneuvers through the Bundefjord.

Attempts to outflank the Norwegian army at Gjellebekk resulted in defeats at Norderhov and Krokskogen, and the siege of Akershus failed due to a lack of artillery. Threatened with encirclement, the Swedes evacuated Christiania, and General Ascheberg's retreat in late March further complicated their position.

Charles regrouped at Torpum and attacked Fredrikshald and Fredriksten. Though Fredrikshald was taken, its commander burned the town, and Fredriksten held off a storming. The Swedish assault failed with heavy casualties, and the defeat at Dynekilen effectively concluded the campaign, prompting the Swedish withdrawal in late June.