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Olaf Tryggvason

Type Figure Region Norway Time c. 963–1000 Also known as Olaf I

Olaf Tryggvason (c. 963–1000) was King of Norway; in his early years he experienced exile and raiding, and after accession he forcefully promoted Chr…

Timeline

  1. c. 968–994British Isles and the Baltic · Baltic SeaDriven into exile in childhood due to political upheaval, he took part in Viking raids and trade in England, Ireland, and elsewhere, accumulating wealth and connections while encountering Christianity.
  2. c. 995–999Trondheim · TrøndelagHe returned to Norway to seize the throne, using force and decree to push the whole country to convert to Christianity, establishing church organizations and destroying pagan cult sites.
  3. 1000waters off Svolder · Baltic SeaAt the Battle of Svolder he was defeated by a coalition including Danish King Sweyn Forkbeard and Swedish King Olaf; according to tradition he leapt into the sea and vanished, and Norway fell into brief division.

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