Modern economic man
In the 19th century it became possible for men and women to work for wages and start businesses. Those with money to spare could open an account at one of the new savings banks to earn interest on their savings.
A new elite made up of industrialists and bankers emerged. They based their position on financial assets – not on the family name as the nobility had previously done.
Money became an increasingly important part of people’s lives. But the vast majority of people in Sweden were still poor.
