Karl Sverkersson

Reign: 1161 – 1167
Life: 1130–1167

Karl Sverkersson or Charles VII (c. 1159 ) knows him as ruler of regnum Gothorum although Erik is known to have held power in Västergötland . Magnus Henriksen had a brief reign after killing Erik, but was himself killed by Karl Sverkersson, probably in 1161 during the battle at Örebro . Reign The brief reign of Karl Sverkersson is important from a number of aspects. The early medieval Swedish kingdom resembled a network of shifting aristocratic alliances rather than a state, but during the second half of the 12th century, it slowly began to converge with the Catholic-European state model. It was during his time that the Archbishop of Uppsala was established, although Sweden was still ecclesiastically subordinated to the Danish archbishop in Lund .

During Karl Sverkersson's reign, Henry II of England ruled England, Alfonso VIII of Castile ruled Spain, and Afonso I of Portugal ruled Portugal.

Want to learn more? Further reading

A History of Sweden by Byron J. Nordstrom

Some book links on this site point to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, WhoWasRuling.com may earn from qualifying purchases.

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.

By subscribing you agree to receive emails from us. See our Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe any time.

From the library

Go deeper on Karl Sverkersson

Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.

A History of Sweden

Byron J. Nordstrom

A straightforward introduction to Swedish kings, wars, and society from the Viking age onward.

Find this book on Amazon

The Northern Wars, 1558–1721
Robert I. Frost
Essential context for the Vasa and later monarchs who fought across the Baltic world.
Find on Amazon