Background
Laurentius Andreae (in Swedish Lars Andersson, in English Lawrence Anderson) was born in the Swedish town of Strängnäson
Laurentius Andreae (in Swedish Lars Andersson, in English Lawrence Anderson) was born in the Swedish town of Strängnäson
As was the case with many 15th century personalities, the date of his birth remained unrecorded, although the year is generally assumed to have been in the early 1470s. During his youth he was a priest, and had travelled to Rome as well as conducted studies abroad. In 1509, when he was in his midto late thirties, he received an appointment as deacon of his hometown of Strängnäson
He served as chancellor for King Gustav I Vasa and cherished by Laurentius Petri, the Archbishop, because they shared a strong Lutheran faith.
In 1540, he and Olaus Petri were sentenced to death. Historians differ in regard to the nature of the alleged transgressions, and whether the sentences were justified.
All agree, however, that the verdicts were highly influenced by the King"s personal opinions and disagreement with the mentor After much pleading, the sentences were reduced to severe fines and both men were released.
Laurentius Andreae died in Strängnäs at the approximate age of 80.