Treaty of Stockholm (1813) facts for kids

The 1813 Treaty of Stockholm was an important agreement signed between Great Britain and Sweden on March 3, 1813. This treaty helped Great Britain get Sweden's help in fighting against Napoleon, a powerful French leader. In return, Sweden received support and other benefits from Great Britain.

What Was the 1813 Treaty of Stockholm?

This treaty was a special kind of agreement called a "treaty of concert and subsidy." This means it was an agreement where countries worked together. It also involved money being paid from one country to another.

The treaty was signed in Stockholm, the capital of Sweden. Important people from both countries signed it. For Great Britain, these were Alexander Hope and Edward Thornton. For Sweden, Lars von Engeström and Gustaf af Wetterstedt signed the agreement.

Why Was This Treaty Needed?

At this time, Europe was in the middle of the Napoleonic Wars. Napoleon was the emperor of France. He was trying to take control of many parts of Europe. Great Britain and its allies were fighting against him.

Great Britain wanted Sweden to join their side and help fight Napoleon. Sweden had a strong army that could be very useful. The treaty was a way to make sure Sweden would help in the war.

What Did Sweden Get?

In exchange for helping fight Napoleon, Sweden received several important things. Great Britain promised to help Sweden take over Norway. At that time, Norway was part of Denmark-Norway. This would make Sweden a much larger and more powerful country.

Great Britain also agreed to pay money to Sweden. These payments are called "subsidies." This money would help Sweden pay for its army and its efforts in the war.

What Did Great Britain Get?

Great Britain's main goal was to get Sweden's military help. Sweden agreed to use its army to fight against Napoleon's forces. This was a big win for Great Britain, as it strengthened their side in the war.

Ending the Slave Trade

An important part of the treaty was Sweden's promise to stop its slave trade. The slave trade involved buying and selling people, which was a terrible practice. By agreeing to end it, Sweden took a step towards stopping this cruel business.

Trading Rights and Land Changes

The treaty also included other agreements. Great Britain gave the island of Guadeloupe to Sweden. Guadeloupe is an island in the Caribbean Sea.

In return, British merchants were given special rights to trade in certain Swedish ports. These ports included Gothenburg, Karlshamn, and Strålsund. This made it easier for British businesses to trade goods with Sweden.