Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte was a prominent military figure in France, serving with distinction under Napoleon Bonaparte. His unexpected rise to the Swedish throne began in 1810 when he was elected as Crown Prince by the Swedish Riksdag. This decision was influenced by the political need for a capable leader to guide Sweden through a period of uncertainty following the Napoleonic Wars. The Swedish elite believed that Bernadotte, a successful general, could strengthen the nation and help in its recovery. His election was a surprising turn of events, considering he had no previous connections to Sweden's royal family or the region itself.

By 1818, Bernadotte ascended to the throne, adopting the name Charles XIV John of Sweden. His reign became noteworthy for its attempt to modernize Sweden's governance and economy while simultaneously ensuring peace in Northern Europe. The coronation took place in Stockholm, highlighting his commitment to merging his French background with Swedish national identity. Bernadotte implemented various social and economic reforms, focusing on agricultural development and infrastructure, thereby fostering progress and stability that benefitted his new kingdom.

In addition to his role as King of Sweden, Bernadotte became King of Norway after the 1814 Treaty of Kiel, further solidifying his influence in the region. His leadership promoted mutual cooperation between Sweden and Norway, and he worked to assert their interests without conflict. Bernadotte's successful preservation of neutrality during subsequent European conflicts helped shape the modern Scandinavian state, marking a shift away from centuries of military disputes with neighboring countries.