Kings and Queens of Sweden
While Olof Skutkonung is traditionally considered Sweden's first king, earlier rulers existed with uncertain records. Olof was the first to convert to Christianity in the early 11th century. Competing dynasties ruled until the 1397 Union of Kalmar united Sweden, Denmark and Norway under Danish rule. Growing Swedish resistance led to the union's overthrow in 1523 by Gustav I Vasa, who established a new royal line. Sweden became a major European power in the 17th century. In 1818, Karl XIV Johan, a former Napoleonic marshal, was chosen as king, founding the current dynasty. Note: kings Eric XIV and Karl IX adopted their regnal numbers based on legendary Swedish history.
66 results