## Sweden in the Post-War Era: Key Concepts and Developments This document explores key political, economic, and social developments in Sweden during the 19th and early 20th centuries, focusing on three interconnected themes: politics, economics, and the women's movement. We'll examine how these factors contributed to Sweden's progress. Per Albin Hansson's role will be highlighted throughout. ### I. Political Transformations #### A. From Ständriksdag to Universal Suffrage * **Ständriksdag (Estates General):** The pre-1866 Swedish parliament, divided by social class (nobility, clergy, burghers, and peasants). This system limited representation and political power. This system was inherently unequal, favoring the wealthy and powerful. * **Two-Chamber Riksdag (1866):** A compromise replacing the Ständriksdag. The First Chamber was based on property ownership (wealthier individuals had more votes), while the Second Chamber had universal male suffrage. This was a step towards greater democracy, but still excluded women and a significant portion of the male population. * **1907 Riksdag Reform:** A further reform granting suffrage to all men who paid taxes (approximately 80% of adult males). This was largely a response to the growing strength of the Liberal Party and the Social Democratic Workers' Party (SAP). This reform demonstrates the influence of political pressure on legislative change. * **Universal and Equal Suffrage (1918):** A landmark achievement granting all adult citizens the right to vote, regardless of gender or property ownership. This was implemented in the 1921 election. This marked a significant shift towards a more inclusive and representative democracy. #### B. Key Political Parties and Figures * **Social Democratic Workers' Party (SAP):** Founded in 1889, the SAP championed workers' rights, an 8-hour workday, and universal suffrage. Led by Hjalmar Branting and later Per Albin Hansson, it played a crucial role in shaping Swedish politics. The SAP's socialist ideals, while present, were tempered by pragmatic political strategies. * **Liberalerna (Liberals):** Initially led by Karl Staaf and later Nils Edén, the Liberals advocated for free trade and social reforms. They were key players in pushing for universal suffrage. It's important to note that the term "liberal" in this context doesn't necessarily align with modern interpretations of the term. * **Conservative Party:** The opposition to the SAP and Liberals, prioritizing a strong national defense and a more cautious approach to social reforms. They initially resisted universal suffrage. * **Per Albin Hansson:** A pivotal figure, Hansson led the SAP to power and implemented the "Folkhemmet" (People's Home) vision, a social democratic welfare state. His "kohandel" (cow trading) negotiations with the Farmers' League strengthened democracy. #### C. Significant Political Events * **Bondetåget (The Farmers' March, 1914):** A major protest by farmers against the Liberal government's proposed defense budget cuts. This event highlighted the political tensions of the time and led to the fall of the Liberal government. This event demonstrates the power of public pressure in influencing political decisions. * **Ådalen Shootings (1931):** A tragic event where striking workers were shot by the military, leading to the creation of a national police force and restrictions on military intervention in labor disputes. ### II. Economic Developments #### A. Agricultural Transformations * **Laga Skifte (1827):** A land reform that consolidated fragmented landholdings into larger, more efficient farms. This increased productivity but also led to greater class disparities in the countryside. This reform is analogous to the "enclosures" in England, which also led to increased agricultural efficiency but social upheaval. * **Proletarianization:** The process by which peasants lost control of their means of production and became wage laborers. This was driven by agricultural changes and industrialization. * **Emigration:** Over a million Swedes emigrated between 1850 and 1914, largely due to lack of economic opportunity in rural areas. This occurred in three waves. #### B. Industrialization and Technological Advancements * **Hemslöjd (Homespun Industry):** Rural families produced and sold goods, providing supplemental income. This evolved into a more organized "förlagssystem" (putting-out system). * **Textile Industry:** The development of mechanical spinning and weaving mills replaced home-based production. Borås became a center of the textile industry. * **Iron and Wood Industry:** Sweden's iron exports were significant, and the wood industry grew rapidly in the 19th century, fueled by demand from England. Steam-powered sawmills revolutionized the industry. * **Industrial Breakthrough (1890s):** Rapid growth in mining, forestry, and related industries, leading to increased exports of pulp, steel, and other goods. * **Snilleindustrier (Ingenious Industries):** Innovative companies like Ericsson, SKF (Swedish Ball Bearing Manufacturing Company), and Tetra Pak emerged, contributing to Sweden's economic growth. * **Transportation:** The construction of the Göta Canal (1832) and the expansion of the railway network significantly improved transportation and facilitated economic development. #### C. Labor Relations * **Muraravtalet (1869):** The first collective bargaining agreement in Sweden, establishing minimum wages for bricklayers. * **Landsorganisationen i Sverige (LO, Swedish Confederation of Trade Unions, 1898):** A powerful organization representing workers' interests and negotiating with employers. * **Svenska Arbetsgivarföreningen (SAF, Swedish Employers' Confederation, 1902):** Formed in response to the LO, representing employers' interests in labor negotiations. * **Saltsjöbadsavtalet (1938):** A landmark agreement establishing a framework for resolving labor disputes, contributing to industrial peace. ### III. The Women's Movement #### A. Early Struggles and Limited Progress * Throughout the 19th century, women faced significant legal and social limitations. They lacked suffrage and were largely excluded from political participation. #### B. Growing Organization and Advocacy * The early 20th century saw the rise of organized women's movements advocating for suffrage and equal rights. Anna Whitlock was a key figure, founding a co-educational school and leading the National Association for Women's Suffrage (LKPR). * LKPR employed various tactics, including leafleting, petitions, and direct appeals to the king. #### C. Achieving Suffrage and Beyond * Women gained the right to vote in 1921, marking a significant victory for the women's movement. This was a culmination of decades of activism and political pressure. ### IV. Key Takeaways * Sweden's transformation from a largely agrarian society to an industrialized nation was accompanied by significant political and social changes. * The development of a strong labor movement and the establishment of collective bargaining mechanisms contributed to industrial peace and economic stability. * The women's movement played a crucial role in achieving universal suffrage and advancing women's rights. * Per Albin Hansson's leadership and the "Folkhemmet" vision were instrumental in shaping Sweden's social democratic welfare state. * The interplay between political, economic, and social factors shaped Sweden's development in the 19th and early 20th centuries.