Christian II of Denmark

Reign: 1520 – 1521
Life: 1481–1559

As king, Christian tried to maintain the Kalmar Union between the Scandinavian countries, which brought him to war with Sweden, lasting between 1518 and 1523. Though he captured the country in 1520, the subsequent slaughter of leading Swedish nobility, churchmen, and others, known as the Stockholm Bloodbath, caused the Swedes to rise against his rule. He attempted to bring in a radical reform of the Danish state in 1521, 22, which would have strengthened the rights of commoners at the expense of the nobles and clergy. Supporters tried to restore him to power both during his exile and his imprisonment but they were defeated decisively during the Count's Feud in 1536.

During Christian II of Denmark's reign, Henry VIII of England ruled England, Selim I ruled Ottoman Empire, and James V of Scotland ruled Scotland.

The World During Their Reign

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

Meanwhile in history

One “meanwhile in history” story each week: who ruled where, and what was happening on thrones across the world.

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