Småland

Småland, the region round Växjö, is notable among the provinces of Sweden for its numerous lakes. The uplands in the northern part of the region slope down towards the south and southwest and give way to a plain. Here begins the "endless forest" celebrated in so many Swedish songs. The landscape of Småland is patterned by the innumerable rocky hills, smoothed and rounded by Ice Age glaciers, interspersed with shallow lakes and peat-bogs. The barren soil is covered with mosses and lichens.

Economic problems

Until the 18th century the population of Småland depended almost exclusively on agriculture for their subsistence, but the stony morainic soil yielded poor returns. Many peasants, therefore, sought employment in factories to eke out a meager living. A rapid increase in population, poverty, high taxes and compulsory military service led many young Småland families to emigrate to America between 1750 and 1850. Development of glass industry

The working of iron ore began in Småland in the 15th century, the main mining center being Taberg. There was a great surge of activity in ironworking when foreign smiths came to Sweden and imparted their skills to the local people. In the 16th century Gustavus Vasa brought in skilled glass-blowers from Venice, and thereafter glass manufacture played a major part in the Swedish economy. In the mid 19th century woodworking and glass were the leading Swedish industries. In time over 200 glassworks were established in Sweden.