Before 1849 , Icelanders had officially ruled themselves as they happened to see fit in domestic matters .
This change was not well - received with Icelanders , as it in reality translated to reduced autonomy for Iceland .
Before 1849 , Icelanders had officially ruled themselves as Iceland happened to see fit in domestic matters .
This change was not well - received with Icelanders , as it in reality translated to reduced autonomy for Iceland .