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Harald Hardrada

Type Figure Region Norway Time 1015–1066 Also known as Harald III、Harald the Ruthless

King of Norway (r. 1046–1066), famed for martial prowess and service in the Byzantine Empire; killed at Stamford Bridge on 25 September 1066.

Timeline

  1. 1030–1045Constantinople · Byzantine EmpireAfter the Battle of Stiklestad he went into exile, serving for years in the Byzantine Varangian Guard, taking part in campaigns in the Mediterranean and Asia Minor, and accumulating military experience and wealth that laid the foundation for his later bid for the Norwegian throne.
  2. 1046–1065Oslofjord · NorwayIn 1046 he co-ruled with his nephew Magnus, later taking sole control of Norway. During his reign he strengthened royal power, promoted Christianization, and campaigned abroad repeatedly, consolidating rule through harsh means and earning the epithet Hardrada (the Ruthless).
  3. 1066Stamford Bridge · YorkshireIn September 1066 he landed in England with a large force at the request of Tostig Godwinson, first taking York. On 25 September he fought Harold Godwinson, who had marched rapidly to meet him, at Stamford Bridge, where he was defeated and killed and the Norwegian expeditionary force was almost annihilated.

Sources