General Notes

Magnus I (of Sweden), called Barnlock (1240-90), king of Sweden (1275-90). Son
of the powerful Earl Birger of the Folkung family, Magnus usurped the throne
from his older brother, Waldemar. He was an outstanding ruler, who enhanced
the unity of his realm, strengthened the monarchy, and, collaborating with the
church, provided internal security and peace by humane legislation. By giving
lands to his younger sons, however, Magnus sowed the seeds of a long dynastic
struggle.