Johan Björnsson Printz

Johan Björnsson Printz was a Governor of the Swedish colony of New Sweden on the Delaware River in North America from 1643 until 1653.

Printz was born in Sweden as the son of Lutheran pastor. During studies of theology in Germany Printz joined the military as a mercenary during the Thirty Years' War fighting for Archduke Leopold of Austria, Duke Christian of Brunswick, and King Christian IV of Denmark. He was successful in military vocation judging by the fact that in 1638 he achieved the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Swedish army.

However, at the age of 50 Printz was appointed director (governor) of the colony of New Sweden in North America. At Ft. Christina, the location of present Wilmington, he ordered the construction of Ft. Elfsborg at Varkens Kill and his own residence at New Gothenborg.

Known as vigorous governor, Printz established cordial relationship with the local Indians and with English North American settlers. He also initiated trade connections with the Dutch in New Netherland and he is credited for construction of several commercial enterprises in New Sweden territory. Faced with discontent and tensions of the settlers, Printz was forced to terminate his rule and return to Sweden. On his post he was replaced by John Papegoja, his deputy and son-in-law.