The period of Swedish rule in Estonia (1561–1710) marked an era of significant political and social transformation for the region. This chapter in Estonia’s history began during the Livonian War when the local Baltic German nobility in northern Estonia, including Harrien (Harjumaa), Wierland (Virumaa), and the city of Reval (Tallinn), sought protection from the Swedish crown. King Eric XIV of Sweden accepted their appeal in 1561, leading to the creation of the Duchy of Estonia under Swedish rule. Over the next few decades, Sweden expanded its influence in the region, gaining control of southern Estonia (Livonia) after the Treaty of Altmark in 1629 and acquiring the island of Saaremaa from Denmark in 1645, thus controlling all of present-day Estonia.
Sweden’s involvement in Estonia was driven by both economic and strategic interests. Estonia’s position as a gateway for trade with Russia was highly valuable, and controlling the region allowed Sweden to prevent its rivals, particularly Denmark and Russia, from gaining a foothold near Swedish-controlled Finland. The local Baltic German nobility retained significant autonomy, and their privileges were respected under Swedish rule. However, by the late 17th century, King Charles XI initiated reforms aimed at curbing the power of the nobility and improving conditions for the Estonian peasantry.
Baltic provinces of the Swedish Empire in the 17th century. Present-day Estonia consists of the Duchy of Estonia and parts of Swedish Livonia. @ Thomas Blomberg
During Swedish rule, a series of reforms were implemented, which helped improve the legal and social status of the local population, especially in the latter half of the period. Swedish authorities promoted Lutheranism, expanded education by founding the University of Tartu, and provided Estonian translations of religious texts, which contributed to the spread of literacy. The era is sometimes nostalgically referred to as the "good old Swedish times" (vana hea Rootsi aeg), reflecting later positive views of Swedish governance, especially in comparison to the harsh conditions under subsequent Russian rule.
The Great Northern War (1700–1721) ended Swedish rule in Estonia. Despite initial Swedish victories, such as the Battle of Narva in 1700, the war eventually saw Russian forces under Peter the Great capture key cities like Riga and Tallinn. In 1710, Swedish Estonia capitulated to Russia, and the war formally ended with the Peace of Nystad in 1721, which confirmed Russia’s control over Estonia. This marked the end of Sweden's influence in the region and the beginning of Russian hegemony, which would last for centuries.