Oscar I of Sweden

Reign: 1844 – 1859
Life: 1799–1859

He was the second monarch of the House of Bernadotte. The only child of King Charles XIV John, Oscar inherited the thrones upon the death of his father. Throughout his reign he would pursue a liberal course in politics in contrast to Charles XIV John, instituting reforms and improving ties between Sweden and Norway. In an address to him in 1857, the Riksdag declared that he had promoted the material prosperity of the kingdom more than any of his predecessors.

During Oscar I of Sweden's reign, Isabella II of Spain ruled Spain, Frederick William IV of Prussia ruled Prussia, and Nicholas I of Russia ruled Russia.

Want to learn more? Further reading

A History of Sweden by Byron J. Nordstrom

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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.

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From the library

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