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The small populations of Scandinavia have had a very disproportionate influence, on western development.

Britain, Normans.

Discovery of North America. Later, Columbus used maps from the Vikings.

Mediterranean Norman empire, based in Bari, Italy (a relative of William the Conqueror).

Russia. The word Rus came from Swedish "vikings" and the elite Russian culture was largely installed from the Nordic one.

Western political philosophy. The "thing" was the nordic "town hall" meeting, or local legislative body. It became incorporated into British concepts, resulting with parliament (House of Commons).

With population of just 9 million, Sweden hosts Volvo and Saab, two good carmakers. Good enough to be purchased by major American carmakers (Ford, GM). Long leaders in safety and innovation.