Russian-Swedish Economic (Trade) Relationships in the 18th Century

Abstract

The article focuses on the history of the events of the 18th century related to the development of trade and economic relations between Russia and Sweden. The stages of development of political and economic ties throughout the century are traced. The history of the origin of political and economic relations dates back to the period of the formation of statehood in Russia. According to one version, the Scandinavian tribes were related to the unification of the East Slavic tribes and the formation of the state of Ancient Russia. At that time, foreign trade exchanges were also established. One of the first known trade routes passed through the Baltic Sea, and through the territory of the Russian state. The route went to the Black Sea. It is well-known as the Trade Route from the Varangians to the Greeks. In the Tale of Bygone Years (the oldest Russian chronicle), the Baltic Sea was called the Varangian Sea, and the Scandinavian tribes were called the Varangians. Gradually, Sweden gained a dominant position on the Baltic Sea. The article considers the causes and consequences of military conflicts, their interdependence with economic and trade relations. Based on the scientific literature of various historical periods and the sources, examples of the nature of trade relations between Russia and Sweden are given. The place of these states in international (European) trade is determined. The role of the government policy of both states in the implementation of foreign trade relations is analyzed. The role of the St. Petersburg port in the development of trade with Sweden is indicated. The article provides examples of the participation of private Swedish companies and individual merchants that traded in Russia.