Sweden's Age of Liberty lasted from 1718 to 1772, and it was a really interesting time filled with big political and social changes. Let's break down the main points!
1. Changes in Government
- Power Shift: The Age of Liberty began after King Charles XII died. This made the monarchy weaker. Power moved to the parliament, which was a huge step for democracy in Sweden.
- The Instrument of Government (1720): This important document changed how the government worked. It put more power in the hands of lawmakers and less in the hands of the king.
2. Political Groups
- Rise of Political Parties: Two main groups formed during this time: the Caps and the Hats. Each group had different ideas about how to run the country and handle foreign affairs. Their debates shaped Sweden's politics.
3. Cultural Growth
- Influence of Enlightenment: This time matched with the Enlightenment, a period that valued reason and justice. Many thinkers, writers, and artists thrived, leading to advances in literature, art, and science.
4. International Relations
- Changing Diplomacy: Instead of focusing on wars, Sweden started to emphasize diplomacy, or peaceful discussion. This change helped create a more stable government and allowed the economy to grow.
5. Social Changes
- Improvements for Society: The Age of Liberty brought important changes, like updates to the legal system and support for civil rights. These changes helped lay the foundation for modern Sweden.
In summary, the Age of Liberty was a key time that helped shape Sweden's democratic values and government structure. It created a better balance of power, which influenced the future of the country.