n.
Swedish Karl
born June 17, 1682, Stockholm, Swed.
died Nov. 30, 1718, Fredrikshald, Nor.
King of Sweden (16971718).
Son of Charles XI , he became absolute monarch at age 15. He defended his country for 18 years in the Second Northern War , gradually taking increased responsibility for planning and executing armed operations. He launched a disastrous invasion of Russia (170709) that resulted in the collapse of the Swedish armies and the loss of Sweden's status as a great power. Ruling early in the Enlightenment, he promoted significant domestic reforms. He was killed during an invasion of Norway.