Eric XIV of Sweden

Eric XIV of Sweden (Swedish: Erik XIV; 13 December 1533 – 26 February 1577) was King of Sweden from 1560 until he was deposed in 1568. Eric XIV was the eldest son of Gustav I and Catherine of Saxe-Lauenburg. He was also ruler of Estonia, after its conquest by Sweden in 1561.

While he has been regarded by some as a competent monarch and patron of culture, Eric's erratic behavior and bouts of insanity led to his deposition and death by poisoning. His illness has been attributed to possible schizophrenia, caused by lead poisoning.

Early Life

Eric was born at the Royal Palace, Stockholm, the son of Gustav I and his first wife, Catherine of Saxe-Lauenburg. His birth was greeted with great celebrations, as his parents had waited fifteen years for an heir.

Reign

Eric XIV became king in 1560, succeeding his father Gustav I. He introduced new laws and reformed the administration, reducing the power of the nobility. He also led Sweden during the Northern Seven Years' War, which expanded Swedish territories.

Mental Health

Eric's mental health deteriorated throughout his reign. He suffered from paranoia and hallucinations, leading to violent outbursts and irrational decisions. His condition has been retrospectively diagnosed as possible schizophrenia, exacerbated by lead poisoning.

Death

Eric XIV died in 1577, likely from poisoning. His brother, John III, who had deposed him, is often suspected of the murder.

Legacy

Despite his mental illness, Eric XIV left a lasting legacy. He is remembered for his cultural patronage and administrative reforms, which helped to modernize Sweden.

Eric XIV of Sweden

See Also

• House of Vasa
• History of Sweden
• List of Swedish monarchs