9 - Aspects of “British” Migration to Sweden in the 17th Century

Summary

While Scottish migration to Sweden has been extensively researched in recent years there has been little scholarship undertaken concerning migrants from other areas of Britain. This chapter therefore draws on established research on Scottish migration to Sweden in this period, as well as recent research focusing on the experience of English migrants. In comparing the experiences of the two, both continuities and differences will be examined, with the possibility of an extant “British” migrant community investigated. The chapter uses case studies ranging across the 17th century, focusing on areas in mainland Sweden as well as in Swedish Baltic possessions.

The contribution of foreigners to the development of Sweden during the 17th century has been firmly established for some time. The roles of Dutch and German migrants have been singled out in particular. However, an appreciation of the significance of Scottish immigration to Sweden in this period is much less widespread, and development of this has been largely left to the efforts of Scottish historians in recent times. Comprehension of the role played by the English has remained largely overlooked. Continuing the study of British migrants to Sweden during this period advances our understanding of migrant groups as a whole. By viewing the experience of the English and Scots we increase our knowledge of mobility during the period. This is achieved in two respects: in regard both to mobility through migration and mobility through social elevation. We also begin to touch upon ideas of interaction in several ways: how the British elements of Swedish migrant communities interacted with members of their host society, as well as with other foreign ethnicities and members of their own nation. Furthermore, the study of British migrants enriches our understanding of Sweden as a place of cultural diversity and a centre of impact of foreign activity.

This chapter outlines some of the key features in the historiography of British migration to Sweden in the 17th century. The discovery of unexploited archival material in Sweden, as well as the undertaking of a new research project focusing on Anglo-Swedish trade in this period, warrants an evaluation of the subject. The chapter therefore seeks to readdress previous conclusions, whilst querying how new material might add to present understandings.