Bringing the People Back In: State Building from Below in the Nordic Countries ca. 1500-1800

This book explores new historical research from the Nordic countries' northern frontier, challenging traditional views of state politics and social relations during the early modern period. It highlights initiatives from excluded groups and returns to contentious politics and state building from below.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 346 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The formation of states in early modern Europe has been a subject of significant historical inquiry, with traditional academic historians focusing on the political and military struggles of kings and rulers. However, this book presents fresh historical research from the northern frontier of Europe, re-invigorating the discussion of state politics by centering on the voices and experiences of ordinary people. It offers alternative perspectives on political and social relations in the Nordic countries before industrialization, challenging the dominant narratives.

During the early modern period, a time characterized by the exclusion of various groups from political influence, individuals and organizations took matters into their own hands, operating outside the confines of central government. This book delves into the realm of contentious politics and state building from below, exploring the initiatives and struggles of these marginalized groups as they sought to shape their destinies and contribute to the formation of the modern states.

The study of state formation in early modern Europe is not only relevant to historians but also to contemporary society as we navigate the challenges and opportunities of political change and development. By examining the experiences of these marginalized groups, we can gain insights into the mechanisms of exclusion and marginalization, as well as the strategies employed by individuals and organizations to overcome them and assert their rights and identities.

Furthermore, the book highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research and collaboration in understanding the complexities of historical processes. By drawing on a range of sources, including historical documents, oral histories, and social science theories, the authors provide a comprehensive and nuanced account of state formation in the Nordic countries. This approach not only enhances our understanding of the past but also sheds light on the potential for positive change and social justice in the present and future.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable contribution to the field of historical inquiry, offering new perspectives on state formation in early modern Europe and re-emphasizing the importance of the voices and experiences of ordinary people in shaping the course of history. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the region, as well as those seeking to understand the contemporary challenges and opportunities of political change and development.

Weight: 666g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367686987