laf Skotkonung was the first Swedish king to become a Christian. From about AD 800, Swedish Vikings established colonies in other countries, especially Russia and Eastern Europe, and established trade routes. During the reign of Eric IX, from 1150 to 1160, Swedish power was strengthened. Eric invaded Finland and forced Christianity on those he conquered; during the subsequent two centuries Finland was completely subjugated by the Swedes. Eric was allegedly slain by a Danish claimant of his throne while he was attending mass, and he later became the patron saint of Sweden. [CARPENTE.GED]

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