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Why did Sweden control Wismar after the Peace of Westphalia?
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MecklenburgâWest Pomerania
Fishing boats in the harbour at Wismar, Ger.
Following the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, Sweden gained control of Wismar as part of the territorial settlements that concluded the Thirty Yearsâ War.1
These territorial acquisitions, which also included western Pomerania, the archbishopric of Bremen, and the bishopric of Verden, were strategically significant for Sweden. By securing these ports and territories, Sweden gained control over the Baltic Sea and the estuaries of major rivers, including the Oder, Elbe, and Weser. This expansion solidified Sweden's position as a dominant military and imperial power in the region during the 17th century.12