Topic > Swedish Culture: The Scandinavian Country of Sweden

The Scandinavian Country of Sweden is located in Northern Europe. The narrow country borders Norway, Finland and the Baltic Sea and is heavily covered with woods, forests and lakes. Mountains and forests dominate the northern region of Sweden; while agriculture is predominant in the southern region. Most Swedes live in the southern region of the country, closer to the coast and the lake valley. Personal growth and independence are highly valued in Swedish culture; individualistic values ​​are stressed over collectivist values. A metaphor that represents Swedish culture is the Swedish stuga. The stuga is a summer holiday home spread throughout the country. Swedes consider Stuga their holiday destination. Statistics say that fifty percent of Swedes have access to a stove. The stuga represents the values ​​of tradition, love of nature, equality and individualism through self-reflection that is Swedish culture. Sweden's history began around 10,000 BC when nomadic hunter-gatherers migrated to the country's northern region. Hunter-gatherers specialized in farming, animal husbandry, and fishing. Eventually the tribes settled and made Sweden their home. Around 500 BC, Viking tribes from Germany invaded Western Europe, took control of Sweden's trade and politics, and converted the population to Christianity. For years, Sweden and its allies fought with Germany for the separation of church and state, facing difficulties and setbacks in their pursuit. The fight for equality took time; however, the powerful Swedish army and government overcame German control. The victory over the German Vikings allowed Sweden to become a democratic system that upholds the values ​​of equality, freedom...... half of the document ......sion to improve education and vocational training and provide aid financial aid to those who cannot afford it. Another prerequisite for high unemployment is the large number of immigrants in the country. Usually people who immigrate to another country tend to form their own groups and it takes some time for them to adapt to the country's norms. Additionally, some lack the educational background that would provide them with the skills needed to get a job. Immigrants in Sweden face a certain level of discrimination and this is reflected in unemployment and low income. However, no evidence has been provided to support this hypothesis. Works Cited1. Brunk, T. (2012, January 13). High unemployment among young people in Sweden. High unemployment among young people in Sweden. Retrieved May 21, 2014, from http://www.eurofound.europa.eu/eiro/2008Works Cited