Science Fair Project Encyclopedia From 1849 to 1953 the
Folketing was one of the houses in the bicameral parliament
known as the Rigsdag; the other house was known as the
"Landsting". Since both houses had equal power, the terms "upper
house" and "lower house" should not be used. The difference
between the houses was voter representation. While the Folketing
represented independent farmers, traders and merchants as well
as the educated classes (i.e. the liberal forces of society),
the Landsting predominantly represented the old aristocracy and
other conservatives. In 1953 the people by popular vote adopted
a new constitution. Among the changes was the elimination of the
Landsting and the introduction of a unicameral parliament, known
only as the Folketing. Christiansborg Castle has been the
domicile of parliament since 1849. The palace is located in the
heart of Copenhagen. - The Folketing may consist of no more than
179 members (known as mandates) elected for 4 years or until the
Prime Minister (via the Quee