This study examines how Swedish industrialisation and modernisation are depicted in history textbooks for grades 7–9 over the past 20 years, identifying themes that highlight a unique Swedish path and national understanding of these processes. Using qualitative content analysis the research reveals recurring themes like the welfare state, innovation, folkhemmet (people's home), democratization, political cooperation, natural resources, and social movements. The welfare state emerges as a central, positive theme, with innovation emphasized to highlight national pride.

Based on Niklas Ammert’s model, textbooks primarily use explanatory and factual presentations, with minimal normative content. Reflective/analytical presentations are present but subtle. Swedish history textbooks often present the nation’s development positively, particularly regarding the welfare state, while global and critical perspectives become more prominent post-1980s.

In conclusion, this study offers insight into how Swedish industrialisation and modernisation is presented in textbooks, reflecting a national understanding of Sweden’s development. The welfare state and related themes are portrayed positively, with innovationas a symbol of national pride, and a neutral approach with factual elements shapes a positive image of Sweden’s history.