Fact Check: Sweden Was Active with Hitler
What We Know
Sweden maintained a policy of neutrality during World War II, officially declaring it in September 1939. However, this neutrality was complex and often compromised by economic and military agreements with Nazi Germany. In June 1940, Sweden signed a transit agreement that allowed German troops and goods to pass through Swedish territory en route to Finland, which facilitated approximately 250,000 trips by German soldiers until August 1943 (source-2).
Economically, Sweden was significantly tied to Germany, supplying vital resources such as iron ore and ball bearings. At one point, Sweden provided Germany with around 40% of its iron ore, which was crucial for the German war effort (source-2). Additionally, numerous Swedish companies were linked to German firms through various agreements, further entrenching economic ties (source-2).
Despite these connections, Sweden also played a humanitarian role by providing refuge to those escaping Nazi oppression, including many Jews from Denmark (source-2). As the war progressed and the tide turned against Germany, Sweden began to respond more to Allied pressure, eventually curtailing trade with Germany following an agreement in September 1943 (source-2).
Analysis
The claim that "Sweden was active with Hitler" is partially true. While Sweden did maintain a neutral stance, its actions during the war often favored Germany, particularly in the early years. The transit agreement and the economic ties indicate a level of cooperation that contradicts the notion of strict neutrality. However, Sweden's provision of refuge to those fleeing Nazi persecution and its eventual alignment with Allied interests complicate the narrative.
The sources used in this analysis are credible, with government archives and historical research providing a well-rounded view of Sweden's actions during the war. The State Department report and the National Archives are particularly reliable as they are primary sources documenting Sweden's wartime policies and actions. Furthermore, academic analyses, such as those found in Wikipedia and Rebellion Research, provide context and interpretation that support the claim while also highlighting Sweden's complex position.
Conclusion
The verdict is Partially True. Sweden's actions during World War II included significant cooperation with Nazi Germany through economic ties and military agreements, which supports the claim of being "active with Hitler." However, Sweden also engaged in humanitarian efforts and eventually aligned more closely with the Allies as the war progressed, indicating that the situation was not as straightforward as the claim suggests.
Sources
- Allied Relations and Negotiations With Sweden - state.gov
- RG 84: Sweden
- Neutrality and Morality: The Swedish Experience
- Sweden during World War II
- Sweden and the Holocaust
- Why Didn't Hitler Invade Sweden? - Rebellion Research
- As the Holocaust escalated, the Swedish press fell silent
- Was Sweden really neutral in World War Two? - History is Now