When the union with Sweden was dissolved Norway was enjoying a period of economic growth which lasted right up to World War I in 1914.  In and after World War I, Norway had a big electronic growth rate which built up even more economic and new products were made and sold on the market which had not happened before.  Following the dissolution of the union, Norway had to built up a foreign office and network of embassies and consulates.  The resources were limited, however Norway played an active part in the work of promoting international arbitration agreements.  During World War I Norway remained neutral, but the Norwegian merchant fleet suffered heavy looses on account of the submarine war and mining of the seas.  In 1920 Norway became a member of the League Nations.  In the imminent threat of World War II in 1930 more funds were provided to the military.  Grants were increased for a stronger Norwegian military strength.  At the outbreak of World War II Norway again proclaimed its neutrality.  Its neutrality did not last because on April 9, 1940 German troops attacked Norway.  With help from Great Britain and France, Norway assigned the merchant fleet into military service and helped to built up Britains army with over 1,000 ships.