ABSTRACT
Many of the original extant dynasties centred on unique Nordic resources while borrowing technologies engendered by the Industrial Revolution. The Revolution gave birth to a new class—the bourgeoisie. The appearance of a Scandinavian bourgeoisie went hand in hand with the establishment of merchant houses, some of which started in partnership with immigrants from Germany, the Netherlands and Great Britain. Many dynasties were found in the early post-war period, during the transition to a mature industrial society. The modernization of Swedish society spurred many entrepreneurs in the building and construction industry, where Lars Erik Lundberg in NorrkŐping came to stand at the forefront of a new industry logic. Entrepreneurial leadership in the Erling Persson family was based on simplicity, anti-bureaucratic principles and a rejection of academic cleverness. Most dynasties started in the countryside, or at least outside the largest cities of the Nordic countries. The chapter looks at founders of family businesses and the needs they identified among the general public.
