ALSTROMER, JONAS (1685-1761), pioneer of Swedish industrialism, was born at Alingsas in Vestergotland, Jan. 7, 1685. He left his native village at an early age, and in 17o7 became clerk to Alberg, a merchant of Stockholm, whom he accompanied to London. After carrying on business for three years, Alberg failed, and Alstromer (who changed his name from Alstrom on receiving letters of nobility) engaged in the business of ship broker on his own account. He returned to Alingsas, and in 1724 established a woollen factory there. After preliminary difficulties it became a very profitable business. He next established a sugar refinery at Gothenburg, introduced improvements in the cultiva tion of potatoes and of plants suitable for dyeing, and directed attention to improved methods in shipbuilding, tanning and the manufacture of cutlery. But his most successful undertaking was the importation of sheep from England, Spain and Angora. He died June 2, 1761, leaving several works on practical industrial subjects.