Magnus I (of Sweden), called Barnlock (1240-1290), King of Sweden (1275-1290). 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, in collaboration 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.
