Age of Freedom
Quick Summary
The Age of Freedom in Swedish history (1718–72) marked a shift from absolutism to a parliamentary form of government. Following the death of Charles XII, power transferred to the estates, with the Diet holding significant authority. A two-party system emerged, the "Nightcaps" and the "Hats," both advocating for mercantilism. The Nightcaps pursued a cautious foreign policy, while the Hats engaged in more aggressive alliances, leading to costly wars with Russia and Prussia. Despite economic challenges and territorial losses, this era fostered advancements in science, culture, and the development of a parliamentary system, paralleling the contemporary English model. Notable figures like Anders Celsius and Carolus Linnaeus made significant contributions during this period.12
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Arvid Bernhard, Count Horn…role in beginning Sweden’s 18th-century Age of Freedom—a 52-year period of parliamentary rule.
Read More…role in beginning Sweden’s 18th-century Age of Freedom—a 52-year period of parliamentary rule.
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Ulrika Eleonora…reign (1718–20) led to Sweden’s Age of Freedom—a 52-year decline of absolutism in favour of parliamentary government.
Read More…reign (1718–20) led to Sweden’s Age of Freedom—a 52-year decline of absolutism in favour of parliamentary government.
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