Children 1660-2000

During the period of absolute monarchy in Denmark (1660-1848) members of the nobility feared for their children’s lives. At that time medical science was often powerless to deal with common childhood illnesses and the infant mortality rate was high. In the 19th century great efforts were made to ensure that all children went to school, including the children of farmers, who were often kept at home to help with agricultural work. By the end of the 20th century, it had become possible to prevent pregnancy, abortion was legal and childless couples could receive fertility treatment. Pregnancies were usually planned.

Selected objects in the museum’s collections provide the basis for children’s stories. The objects are displayed at the National Museum in the exhibition Stories of Denmark 1660-2000.