Olaf Haraldsson's Bid for the Norwegian Throne

Name: Olaf Haraldsson's Bid for the Norwegian Throne
Start: 1010
End: 1012

Type Event Region Norway Time 1010–1012

Around 1010 CE, Olaf Haraldsson (later Saint Olaf) fought Vikings in England for Æthelred while accumulating military prestige and allies, preparing …

Timeline

1010Norway · NorwayAfter the Battle of Svolder (1000), Norway was divided among jarls such as Sweyn Haakonsson and Eric Haakonsson, effectively under the influence of Denmark's Cnut. The power vacuum offered the exiled Olaf Haraldsson an opportunity to seize the throne.
1010–1011England · EnglandOlaf Haraldsson led a fleet in the service of Æthelred II, taking part in naval battles and coastal operations against the Danish Viking fleet. The sagas record that he displayed outstanding military talent during this period, gaining wealth and popularity, and accumulating capital for his return to seize the throne.
1011–1012Normandy · NormandyAfter leaving England, Olaf went to Normandy, made contact with rulers descended from Rollo, and began seeking supporters within Norway. His strategy for seizing the throne combined military force, Christian faith appeals, and dissatisfaction with jarl rule, laying the groundwork for his formal return in 1015-1016.

Sources

Heimskringla: Saga of Olaf Haraldson — Snorri Sturluson (1230) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Olaf_II_of_Norway
Anglo-Saxon Chronicle https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anglo-Saxon_Chronicle