Ο Charles IX (Charles XIII, 1748-1818) was King of Sweden from 1809 to 1818 and of Norway from 1814 to 1818. He was born on 7 October 1748 in Stockholm, the son of King Adolf Frederick and Queen Louisa Ulrike. Before his accession to the throne, he held the title of Duke of Sondermannland.

The reign of Charles III marked Sweden’s transition from absolute monarchy to constitutional government, following the forced abdication of Gustavus IV Adolphus in 1809. During his reign, the union of Sweden and Norway was established. However, due to his poor health and age, he had limited personal involvement in political developments.

Charles XI was a fervent Freemason. He was initiated at an early age and was actively involved in Masonic activities throughout his life. He served the Brotherhood as Great Master taking an important role in the supervision of tectonic activities in Sweden and contributing significantly to the development and organisation of Freemasonry in the country. Under his leadership, Freemasonry in Sweden was organized and the freemasonry movement flourished.

In addition, Charles XI was known for founding the Order of Charles III in 1811, a masonic order awarded only to prominent Freemasons.

Charles XI’s strong support for the Brotherhood and his active participation in Masonic life make him one of the most influential Royal Freemasons of his time.

Charles XVIII died on 5 February 1818, leaving behind a legacy of important reforms and the foundation of the modern constitutional monarchy in Sweden.