Gustav Adolph was born on December 9th, 1594, in Stockholm Sweden. His parents were King Charles IX, and Christina of Holstein.

Young Gustavus was well schooled in The Classics, Law, History, and Theology, and spoke fluent German and other languages from an early age. Through his father, he also learned duties and responsibilities of court, and military leadership.

When he was just 16 years old, he commanded the Swedish forces against the Danish invaders at East Gotland. Seize the Night-Military Leader's site