Eric I, also known as Eric the Victorious, was a king of Sweden during the late 10th century. He is often credited with being the first king to unite various tribes in the region, laying the groundwork for a more centralized Swedish monarchy. His reign is believed to have occurred around 970 to 995 AD, although exact dates are uncertain. Eric I is also known for his efforts to spread Christianity in Sweden, which was still largely pagan at the time. His legacy includes the establishment of a more organized society and the promotion of trade and cultural exchange with neighboring regions, contributing to the development of early medieval Scandinavia.