Charles XIV John of Sweden

Charles XIV John of Sweden, originally Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte, was a French military leader who became King of Sweden and Norway in 1818. Initially a Marshal of France under Napoleon, he was chosen as heir due to his military prowess and diplomatic qualities. As king, he helped modernize Sweden's government and military, promoting stability and unity between the two countries. His reign marked the beginning of the Bernadotte dynasty, which continues today. His leadership bridged his revolutionary past with his role as a constitutional monarch, shaping modern Scandinavian history.