“You Cannot Pass”

This chapter examines the Swedish state’s control practices in the late eighteenth century. More specifically, it looks at the case of migrant Annika Åqvist in 1744 and her efforts to leave the country. Passports were legally required for all travels, but by presenting herself as a respectable widow, Annika managed to journey all through mainland Sweden. It was not until she reached the port city of Helsingborg that migration controls prevented her further movements. The lack of proper documentation, suspicious behavior, and rumors led to Annika being arrested and questioned, effectively hindering her from crossing the strait to Denmark. However, the case also highlights the shortcomings of the port city’s control mechanisms. Had Annika timed her journey more thoroughly and been better informed of the politics of the city, she might have managed to slip through. As shown in the study, local residents were generally willing to help the passing stranger, especially if they could expect compensation—even if this meant breaking the law. The case of Annika Åqvist demonstrates the conditions as well as social costs of fleeting hospitality and civil inattention.