born October 15, 1622, Reval, Swedish Estonia

died April 26, 1686, Venngarn, Sweden

Swedish statesman, head of Charles XI's administration from 1660 to 1680. During the youth of Charles XI, he headed the Council of Regency; when Charles became of age (1672), he was his chief minister. War with Denmark and Brandenburg in 1675 discredited De la Gardie's foreign policy, however, and the poor condition of the army brought financial disorders to light. Hence, he was replaced as minister. Later, an inquiry into the administration of the regency led to his being fined, and he died impoverished.