Count Axel, a distinguished Swedish statesman, was born at Fano in Upland in 1583. After studying at the universities of Rostock, Jena, and Witten- Oxford, berg, and graduating in arts, he visited most of the German courts, and returned to Sweden in 1602. Accomplished in scholarship, versed in foreign politics, taking to business spontaneously and eagerly, far-sighted, faithful, and patriotic, Oxenstierna now entered upon the career of a statesman under Charles IX. He conducted an important diplomatic mission in 1606, became a senator in 1608, and presided over the regency which governed the country during the superannuation of the king. His influence rose still higher on the accession of Gustavus Adolphus in 1611. The chancellorship, the chief office of the state, was conferred upon him; he became the able second of his sovereign in advancing the interests of his native country, and in defending the liberties of Europe; and it was soon proved that he was not unworthy to consummate by the art of diplomacy the enterprise which the royal hero had begun by the art of war. His negotiations brought to an advantageous close in 1613 one war with Denmark, and in 1617 another with Russia. It was, however, in 1632, when Gustavus fell at Lutzen, that Oxenstierna rose to the height of power. The great task of maintaining, in the room of the fallen hero, the cause of Protestantism, was entrusted to him; and that task he performed amid the onset of enemies and the dissensions of allies, with unwearied vigour and ultimate success.

His authority as chancellor, and as one of the guardians of Queen Christina, was exerted in introducing an improved plan of finance, removing burdens from trade, and patronizing learning. He also succeeded in checking the misrule incident to a minority; and in 1645 placed an unimpaired government in the hands of the young princess. The high public influence of Oxenstierna declined considerably towards the close of his life, in consequence of the determined opposition which he offered to the abdication of Queen Christina. Although sometimes consulted by Charles Gustavus, he lived thenceforth in private till his death, in 1654.