Sweden's era of great power

Definition

Sweden's Era of Great Power refers to the period during the 17th and early 18th centuries when Sweden emerged as a significant European power, following successful military campaigns and territorial expansions during the Thirty Years' War and the Northern Wars. This period was marked by absolutist rule, as the Swedish monarchy centralized power and expanded its influence over the Baltic region, leading to a dominant position in European politics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During this era, Sweden established a powerful military that was instrumental in expanding its territory and influence in Northern Europe.
2. Sweden's absolutist monarchs centralized authority and strengthened the state through reforms, such as increased taxation and a standing army.
3. The victory at the Battle of Breitenfeld in 1631 marked a turning point for Sweden during the Thirty Years' War, enhancing its reputation as a military power.
4. The Treaty of Westphalia recognized Sweden's territorial acquisitions, including parts of present-day Germany, and solidified its role as a key player in European politics.
5. The Great Northern War ultimately led to Sweden's decline, as it lost territories and influence to emerging powers like Russia.

Review Questions

• How did Gustavus Adolphus contribute to Sweden's emergence as a great power during the 17th century?
  • Gustavus Adolphus played a crucial role in establishing Sweden as a great power through his military reforms and innovative tactics during the Thirty Years' War. His leadership at battles such as Breitenfeld showcased the effectiveness of his strategies, including mobile artillery and combined arms tactics. By winning key victories, he not only expanded Swedish territory but also elevated Sweden's status on the European stage.
• Evaluate the impact of the Treaty of Westphalia on Sweden's status in Europe after the Thirty Years' War.
  • The Treaty of Westphalia significantly impacted Sweden's status by formally recognizing its territorial gains from the Thirty Years' War. This treaty allowed Sweden to secure control over key regions, especially in Northern Germany, which bolstered its political influence. The acknowledgment of Sweden as a major power also set the stage for its involvement in European diplomacy and conflicts in subsequent years.
• Assess how absolutism shaped the governance of Sweden during its era of great power and its long-term effects on Swedish society.
  • Absolutism in Sweden during this era enabled the monarchy to centralize power effectively, leading to significant administrative reforms and military expansion. The absolute rule allowed kings to implement policies that strengthened the state, including increased taxation and military conscription. However, this centralization also laid the groundwork for future political conflicts, as resistance to absolutism would later emerge in Swedish society, leading to shifts towards parliamentary governance.

Related terms

Gustavus Adolphus: The King of Sweden from 1611 to 1632, known for his military innovations and leadership during the Thirty Years' War, which significantly elevated Sweden's status in Europe.

Treaty of Westphalia: The series of peace treaties signed in 1648 that ended the Thirty Years' War and recognized Sweden's territorial gains, solidifying its position as a great power.

Great Northern War: A conflict from 1700 to 1721 in which Sweden fought against a coalition led by Russia, Denmark-Norway, and Saxony, ultimately resulting in Sweden's decline as a great power.