Sweden

Definition

Sweden is a Scandinavian country known for its neutral stance in international conflicts and its social democratic model. In the context of European responses to fascism and appeasement, Sweden maintained a policy of neutrality during the interwar years and World War II, which influenced its relationships with both Axis and Allied powers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sweden remained officially neutral during both World War I and World War II, avoiding direct military involvement despite pressures from neighboring countries.
2. The Swedish government adopted policies that allowed for trade with Nazi Germany while also providing refuge for those fleeing fascism, showcasing a complex balancing act.
3. Sweden's social welfare system became more pronounced during this period, as the government focused on internal stability and economic resilience in the face of external threats.
4. During WWII, Sweden provided asylum to over 100,000 Finnish refugees escaping from the Soviet invasion during the Winter War, demonstrating its humanitarian approach.
5. The country’s neutrality and humanitarian efforts contributed to its post-war reputation as a peaceful nation, influencing its foreign policy for decades to come.

Review Questions

• How did Sweden's neutrality during the interwar years affect its interactions with both Axis and Allied powers?
  • Sweden's neutrality allowed it to maintain diplomatic relations with both the Axis and Allied powers, leading to complex interactions that included trade agreements and refugee assistance. While it traded with Nazi Germany to ensure economic stability, it also provided refuge for those escaping fascist regimes. This balancing act demonstrated Sweden's strategic approach to foreign policy during a tumultuous period in Europe.
• Analyze how Sweden's social democratic model influenced its response to the rise of fascism in Europe.
  • Sweden's social democratic model prioritized welfare and equality, which influenced its response to fascism by fostering an environment of political stability and social cohesion. As fascist movements gained traction in Europe, Sweden sought to address social inequalities through robust welfare policies, reducing the appeal of extremist ideologies. This proactive approach helped maintain internal stability and positioned Sweden as a safe haven for those fleeing oppression.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of Sweden's WWII neutrality on its post-war foreign policy and international relations.
  • Sweden's decision to remain neutral during WWII shaped its post-war foreign policy by establishing a commitment to peace and humanitarian efforts. This neutrality allowed Sweden to position itself as a mediator in international conflicts and develop strong diplomatic relations worldwide. The legacy of this approach has led Sweden to become a prominent advocate for human rights and conflict resolution in contemporary global politics, maintaining its reputation as a peaceful nation.

Related terms

Neutrality:

A policy of not taking sides in conflicts or wars, which Sweden practiced throughout both World Wars.

Social Democracy: A political ideology that aims to promote social justice within a framework of a capitalist economy, significantly shaping Swedish society.

Scandinavian Defense Agreement: A defense pact among Scandinavian countries that aimed to provide mutual support and security, reflecting regional concerns during the rise of fascism in Europe.