hemman

A hemman is a unit of land tenure in Sweden, particularly in the provinces of Småland and Öland. The term originates from the Old Swedish word "hemman," which means "home farm" or "homestead." Historically, a hemman was a self-sufficient farm that was owned by a tenant farmer who paid a fixed rent to the landlord. The size of a hemman varied but typically ranged from 10 to 20 hectares.

The hemman system was established during the Middle Ages and continued until the late 19th century. It was characterized by a strong sense of community and mutual support among the tenant farmers. Each hemman was responsible for its own cultivation, livestock, and other agricultural activities. The landlord, often a noble or the crown, provided the tenant with the land and basic tools, while the tenant was responsible for the upkeep and productivity of the farm.

The hemman system played a significant role in the development of Swedish agriculture and rural society. It encouraged self-sufficiency and local self-governance, contributing to the unique cultural and agricultural landscape of Sweden. However, the system also had its drawbacks, including limited economic flexibility and potential for exploitation by landlords.

In the late 19th century, the hemman system began to decline as a result of various economic and social changes. The introduction of new agricultural technologies, the expansion of industrialization, and the rise of tenant farmers' rights led to the eventual abolition of the hemman system. Today, the term "hemman" is used primarily in historical and cultural contexts to refer to this traditional form of land tenure.