Sweden around the world
In the 18th century, homes began to look like we know them today: adorned with cotton curtains and smelling of coffee. The global economy had begun.
Ships carrying goods from China and the West Indies docked at Swedish ports. With each consignment, availability increased, prices fell and more people were able to buy things. The Swedes sold copper and iron and bought sugar and silk.
But the ruling classes were not keen on people enjoying luxury goods from abroad. They wanted to promote Swedish goods. Drinking coffee was even banned at times during the 18th century.
The European trading houses benefited most from this new global trade. The price was paid by slaves on the other side of the world.
