Part 7/8:

Over several days, the army suffered staggering losses. The initial count of 10,000 dwindled to less than half, with survivors barely able to reach civilization. In total, 7,900 Carolan soldiers lost their lives on this ill-fated march, alongside countless Norwegian civilians who suffered due to the occupation.

The Aftermath

When the remnants of the army finally returned to Sweden, they were forever changed, not only in strength but in the very identity of the Carolan warriors. The campaign did not only result in extreme loss but marked the end of Sweden’s ambition to dominate the region. Sweden transitioned to a constitutional monarchy, further limiting the power of what was once a formidable military force.