Legitimizing and Enacting Contradictory Ideals: Squatting in Sweden in the 1980s

Abstract Squatting in Sweden peaked the 1980s. Stockholm and Gothenburg were epicenters, among other smaller towns throughout country. Researchers identified punk music, influences from abroad, anarchist ideas emergence of urban social movements as central to increase squatting during this decade. Only a fragmented picture events has been presented until now, however, often at city level limited period. This perspective fails connect actions across country, beyond its borders. Departing approach form contentious repertoire, I will analyze how squatters negotiated legitimized their actions, relation different opponents. Special attention is given contradictions caused by sometimes contradictory ideals communication significance squatting. Based on materials produced secondary materials, chapter explores arenas interactions, or fields where actors interact within own group movement, with authorities police.