An Elected Dynasty of Sweden? Blood, Charisma and Representative Monarchy

Abstract

This essay addresses the introduction of royal primogeniture in Sweden by king Gustav I in in 1540 and 1544. Previous research has described the first decision as informed by absolutist ideology, while the second has been considered a compromise in line with the medieval constitution. My contribution will discuss the key elements in this process and identify absolutist and constitutional markers. I argue that the introduction of hereditary monarchy actually strengthened representative government functions. The decision of 1544 gave the Swedish estates and the council of the realm a clear stake in the perpetuation of the monarchy. Hereditary monarchy paved the way for a monarchical regime that was dependent on balancing the influence of the aristocracy and the commoner estates.