"Jernvägsfrågan" : Om det offentliga samtalet kring järnvägar i Sverige 1851

Sammanfattning: Despite a situation of poor state finances 1848 marks the starting point of Sweden’s railroad history, as this is year when the country’s first railroad was proposed and approved in parliament. Not sufficient funds for the project was raised though, and a new motion was raised in parliament in 1851 with improved financial support from the state. This caused an intense debate which is the main subject of this essay. By analyzing the public discussion regarding railroads, as expressed in news media, during 1851 this essay aims to analyze the discussions about railroads in search of the 19th century’s overarching themes of modernity and nationalism. These terms are to be understood as rhetorical expressions, in accordance with Aguiars and Andersons interpretation of the terms. The performed analysis displays how nationalism is a theme present in both sides of the debate in 1851, though in different ways. Those skeptical of the planned railroad line argues about the nation being tricked into embarking on an expensive project that will never be financially viable by bought foreign interest. Those in favor argues rather that the project will bind together a fragmented Sweden into one nation. Arguments involving modernity though, are just to be found amongst those in favor. Here we find arguments about the promises that the future holds with railroads connecting the swedes and a pervasive optimism regarding the future. Less concern is displayed to current day problems, other than how it might threaten future railroad expansions.