Sweden's 1809 Coup: Constitution and the Loss of Finland

In this episode of The History of Sweden, hosts Lucas and Luna explore the dramatic 1809 coup d'état that overthrew King Gustav IV Adolf and led to a new constitution reshaping Sweden's governance. They delve into the disastrous Finnish War against Russia, which resulted in Sweden losing Finland after centuries of union. The conversation covers the role of Georg Adlersparre, the military coup from the west, the brief reign of Charles XIII, and the adoption of the 1809 Instrument of Government that established a separation of powers. Lucas explains how this event marked Sweden's transition from absolutism to a constitutional monarchy, setting the stage for its modern neutral stance and eventual parliamentary democracy. The discussion also touches on the Riksdag of the Estates, the rise of the liberal opposition, and the lasting impact on Swedish identity and foreign policy. This episode is a deep dive into a pivotal yet often overlooked chapter that defined Sweden's path to modernity.

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