Charles XI of Sweden

What people wore

Strict fashion laws for commoners

During the 1600s, Swedish commoners were strictly forbidden from using silk fabrics or other exclusive materials in public, with violators facing fines or imprisonment on bread and water.

Daily life

Education and religious instruction

Formal schooling was primarily for boys, while nobility often hired private tutors for their children. By 1686, parish clergy became responsible for organizing local education, which focused on Lutheran religious instruction and basic literacy taught by the parish clerk.

Work

Daily wages for workers in the 1600s

In August, a worker could earn 12 öre for a nine-hour workday, while a full 12-hour day paid more.

Music

Instruments used by common people

During the 17th century, popular instruments for common people included the nyckelharpa, various drums, horns, and simple pipes, while bowed string instruments like the violin became increasingly common.

At the table

Daily beer consumption was remarkably high

Because access to pure water was limited, ordinary people consumed beer as a daily beverage, with consumption estimated at three to four liters per person each day.

Getting around

Summer riding and winter sledding

In summer, most travel was done on horseback, as roads were frequently narrow, rocky paths unsuitable for carriages. During winter, travelers often used sleds to move quickly over frozen lakes and marshes, which provided smoother routes than land.

What it cost

Price of bread and meat in Ångermanland

In Ångermanland, a single loaf of bread was valued at 2 öre, while 1 liter of meat cost 24 öre.