April 1943 period of unrest in Uppsala, Sweden caused by a fascist gathering
The Easter Riots of 1943 mark a notable instance of anti-fascist civil protest in wartime Sweden, suppressed by police violence.
Key Facts
- Date of climax
- 26 April 1943
- Location of demonstration
- Royal Mounds of Old Uppsala
- Fascist group involved
- Swedish Socialist Union (SSS)
- Police reinforcements
- Called in from Stockholm
- Context
- Days after the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
The Swedish Socialist Union, formerly the National Socialist Workers' Party, chose to hold its national congress in Uppsala during Easter 1943. The timing was particularly charged, falling amid World War II and only days after the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, heightening public anger toward the openly fascist gathering.
Thousands of anti-fascists gathered at the historically and politically symbolic Royal Mounds of Old Uppsala to protest the SSS demonstration held at the conclusion of the congress on 26 April 1943. Police brought in from Stockholm responded to the growing tension with heavy force, dispersing both protesters and bystanders.
The police use of force against peaceful crowds and onlookers drew significant attention to the clash between Swedish anti-fascist sentiment and state tolerance of fascist organizations during wartime. The event became known as the Easter Riots and is remembered as a moment of civil unrest rooted in wartime political polarization.
Political Outcome
Police suppressed anti-fascist protests with force; SSS completed its congress and demonstration at the Royal Mounds.