Gustav I Vasa: The Swedish Monarch (1496-1560)

Gustav I Vasa, born in 1496, led Sweden to independence from Danish rule, becoming king in 1523. He initiated the Swedish Reformation, establishing the Lutheran Church and diminishing Catholic power. Gustav centralized government control, modernizing the administration and military, laying the groundwork for the Swedish state. His reign until 1560 marked the end of the Kalmar Union and the start of Swedish sovereignty. Gustav Vasa's legacy is foundational in Swedish history, shaping its future as a nation and monarchy.