Danske Bank og danskerne 1871-2021

In some ways, the financial industry constitutes a paradox, internationally as well as in Denmark. On the one hand banks have historically contributed to economic growth and development. On the other hand, public sentiment towards banks is often hostile, especially in the wake of financial crises and scandals. In Denmark Danske Bank, in particular, has often taken on and been assigned meanings that have questioned its contributions to society. This project will provide a new and timely understanding of Danske Bank's role in Danish society since 1871. Danske Bank's history will be analyzed in the historical context of the international financial industry. The overall aim is to provide a new understanding of the role of Danske bank and its relations to the Danes.

This research project will focus on Danske Bank and its management, and its role and representation in the public sphere, as well as on the Danish authorities and public's perception of the bank and how it has changed over time. The shifting responses to the bank will be seen as cultural expressions that assign meanings to the bank through competing narratives. In terms of approach, I apply a narrative and sensemaking approach combined with sociological and historical theory about finance and change over time. The project will be based on a wide range of empirical material including newspapers, magazines and journals, annual reports, commission reports, interviews, and archives as well as other relevant empirical material.