Full resolution (TIFF) - On this page / på denna sida - V. Later Catholic Period in Sweden - F. Reign of Magnus Ericsson
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Magnus Ericsson 79
Atterdag, "again day," is said to have been given him
because with him day again arose over Denmark after
a long period of depression and weakness. He began
as king of only a small part of Jutland, for during the
long period of weakness one of the kings had pawned
nearly the whole of Denmark to the Dukes of Holstein.
Waldemar made it his aim to regain and unite all Den-
mark again. He carefully concealed his plans, but
struck powerfully when opportunity offered. After
twenty years of hard struggle his goal was reached.
He had now become a great ruler. His determina-
tion was now to curb the proud Hanseatic League. A
Danish fleet set out to conquer the Island of Gothland,
of old the central point of Baltic commerce. The island
at that time recognized the suzerainty of the king of
Sweden and paid tribute to him. Here was the Hanse
city of Visby, the Pearl of the Baltic. This city had for
a long time been the sole intermediary in the trade
between western Europe and Russia and the East. It
had thus become the wealthiest city in the North. The
city boasted of magnificent churches and numerous
massive residences, and within their strong city walls
the people felt secure. But a stronger came, and with
him came disaster. Waldemar triumphed, and the
Danes entered the city. The three largest ale casks
were set up in the market place to be filled with gold
and silver by the people of Visby. After having placed
Danish bailiffs in the island, Waldemar sailed home.
But one of the ships on which he had placed the booty
is said to have perished in the waves.
This pillage was a hard blow to Visby. But the city
was already on the decline, for it had met with com-
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