New Sweden: The US's Long-Lost Secret Colony That Shaped America

New Sweden: the US's long-lost 'secret' colony

Standing atop Philadelphia's City Hall, I discovered that the birthplace of America was once a covert Swedish outpost. From 1638 to 1655, New Sweden operated as a secret colony to outmaneuver the Dutch, introducing the iconic log cabin and fostering unique relationships with Native tribes. Despite lasting only 17 years, this forgotten chapter left an enduring mark on the nation's culture and identity.

"Unlike every other European colony in the US, New Sweden maintained relatively peaceful relationships with its Native neighbours."