Erik XIV

Portrait of Erik XIV by Domenicus Verwilt

Erik XIV (13 December 1533 – 26 February 1577) was King of Sweden from 1560 until he was deposed in 1568. He was the eldest son of Gustav I of Sweden and Catherine of Saxe-Lauenburg. Erik is remembered for his ambitious foreign policy, his mental instability, and his tragic downfall.

Early Life

Erik was born in Stockholm, the son of King Gustav I and his first wife, Catherine of Saxe-Lauenburg. He was educated in the classical tradition and was fluent in several languages, including Latin, German, and French.

Reign

Erik ascended to the throne in 1560 following the death of his father. His reign was marked by efforts to expand Swedish influence in the Baltic Sea region. Erik sought to establish Sweden as a major power in Northern Europe, which led to conflicts with Denmark, Russia, and Poland.

Domestic Policies

Erik's domestic policies were characterized by attempts to centralize power and reduce the influence of the nobility. He introduced reforms to strengthen the monarchy and improve the administration of justice. However, his reign was also marked by increasing paranoia and mental instability.

Foreign Policy

Erik's foreign policy was aggressive and expansionist. He engaged in the Northern Seven Years' War (1563–1570) against Denmark and its allies. The war was costly and ultimately inconclusive, leading to significant strain on Sweden's resources.

Outdoor relief of Erik XIV at Stockholm Palace

Mental Health and Downfall

Erik's mental health deteriorated over the course of his reign. He became increasingly suspicious of those around him, leading to the infamous "Sture Murders" in 1567, where several members of the noble Sture family were executed on Erik's orders. This act of violence shocked the nation and eroded support for his rule.

In 1568, Erik was deposed by his half-brother, John, who took the throne with the support of the nobility. Erik was imprisoned and spent the remainder of his life in captivity.

Death

Erik died in 1577 under mysterious circumstances. It is widely believed that he was poisoned, possibly on the orders of his brother, King John III. Erik was buried in Västerås Cathedral.

Grave of Erik XIV in Västerås Cathedral

Legacy

Erik XIV's reign is often remembered for its dramatic events and his tragic end. His life has been the subject of numerous historical studies and artistic works, reflecting the complex nature of his character and reign.

Artistic Contributions

Erik was also a patron of the arts and took an interest in painting. He is known to have painted several portraits, including one of his sister, Catherine.

Portrait of Catherine of Sweden by Erik XIV

Related Pages

• Gustav I of Sweden
• John III of Sweden
• Northern Seven Years' War
• Sture Murders