The Kingdom of Sweden (Swedish: Konungariket Sverige) has been a monarchy since time immemorial. Originally an elective monarchy, the Throne became hereditary only in the 16th century during the reign of Gustav Vasa.
As Sweden is a representative democracy in a parliamentary system based on popular sovereignty, as defined in the current Instrument of Government, the Monarch has a purely ceremonial role, though officially he or she is explicitly designated as head of state and holds the highest state office in the country, and by courtesy the highest military and social ranks. The Monarch and the members of Swedish Royal Family undertake a variety of official, ceremonial and representational duties on behalf of the nation.
Carl XVI Gustaf has reigned as King (Swedish: Sveriges Konung) since 15 September 1973, when he succeeded his grandfather Gustaf VI Adolf. The King married German-Brazilian Silvia Sommerlath on 19 June 1976 in Stockholm Cathedral, and with whom he has three children, and at present one grandchild.
Song: Two Steps From Hell - Heart of Courage