Wedged between East and West, Sweden found herself in a difficult situation, both politically and geographically. There was a great deal for fear of a third world war. The external threat was an invasion from the east, while the inner threat was espionage. The fear of war meant a fear of the Russians. A strong military and civil defence was instituted to protect Sweden. The best way to protect the country was from the air, and Sweden would soon have one of the strongest air forces in the world.
Non-alignment and neutrality
Sweden took a clear position: non-alignment in peace and neutrality in war - a third way, between communism and capitalism. Maintaining this balance was not always easy, but would become a leitmotif throughout the Cold War. In the 1950s, Sweden was shaken by dramatic events. Two planes were shot down by Soviet fighters, and several spies were discovered. Relations with the Soviet Union became chilly, and clandestine cooperation with the West was increased.
Starting to build the Welfare State
Sweden had escaped the devastation of the Second World War. Factories worked overtime, and unemployment was low. The economy grew and the standard of living rose. We began building the welfare state, the Swedish model. The future was viewed with hope, but also with unease. The enemy had ears all over. Total war required total defence, and the idea of the public as detective was hatched.