Karl Knutsson

Common card · No. 340921

Karl Knutsson Bonde (c. 1408–1470), also known as Charles VIII and called Charles I in Norwegian contexts, was King of Sweden (1448–1457, 1464–1465 and 1467–1470) and King of Norway (1449–1450). He rose in Swedish politics because Erik of Pomerania was unpopular and became regent after a rebellion by Engelbrekt Engelbrektsson. He held powerful posts, notably in Finland, where he acted semi-independently. After King Christopher's death in 1448, Karl was elected king of Sweden and briefly king of Norway (1449–1450), but was forced to relinquish the latter to Christian I of Denmark. His rule faced opposition from the nobility and church, especially amid war with Denmark from 1451. His consolidation of power alienated key factions like the Oxenstierna and Vasa families, leading to growing resistance that resulted in two rebellions, in 1457 and 1464.

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