the 1814 Constitution

The 1814 Constitution of Sweden was a foundational legal document that established a constitutional monarchy following the Napoleonic Wars. It aimed to balance power between the king and the parliament, known as the Riksdag. The constitution strengthened civil liberties and defined the roles of government institutions. Although it granted the king significant powers, it also allowed for greater public participation in governance through elected representatives. This constitution laid the groundwork for modern Swedish democracy and marked a shift towards a more accountable government, reflecting Enlightenment ideals of political responsibility and individual rights.