Magnus Eriksson

Magnus Eriksson

 

(Magnus II of Sweden). Born 1316; died Dec. 1, 1374. Swedish king in 1319-63 (formally until 1371). Norwegian king from 1319 to 1355.

Magnus conducted an unsuccessful war against Novgorod (1348-51). He published the first general Swedish code of laws (the Landslag). The strengthening of royal power during Magnus’ reign provoked resistance from the great feudal lords and the church. During the struggle against them and their puppet, Albert of Mecklenburg, Magnus was deprived of the Swedish throne (he had earlier bestowed the Norwegian crown on his son Haakon).