arvlopp

Arvlopp, also known as inheritance, is a feudal obligation in Sweden where the obligation to pay a certain amount of money knew as "arvlor" upon death by a certain landowner, usually a freeholder or a member of the nobility. This obligation typically fell to the closest relative, often a son or a daughter, who would inherit the land and subsequent responsibilities of the now deceased.

The arvlopp system was prevalent in Sweden during the Middle Ages, beginning in the 12th century and lasting until the 19th century. The amount of money owed varied depending on the region and social standing of the deceased. To understand the amount owed, the following factors were typically taken into account: the value of the estate, the titles or social status of the deceased, and the local peasant ordinances.

During this time, if a landowner died without an heir, their farm or estate would be sold to the highest bidder, and the estate's debt known as "arvSkulden" would be deducted from the sale price, in which case this amount was owed to the lord.

The arvlopp was put to use to secure social stability and prevent peasants from leaving their land. This system declined as Mercantilism emerged as a significant economic force, eventually becoming a historical relic.