Harold I

Harold I or Harold Fairhair, Norse Harald Haarfager, c.850–c.933, first king of Norway, son of Halfdan the Black, king of Vestfold (SE Norway). After succeeding his father, Harold initiated a series of battles against the other petty kings, climaxed by a great victory at Hafrs Fjord (872) that made him ruler of Norway. Although he is considered Norway's first king, Harold controlled only the west coast. Migration to Iceland reached its peak during Harold's reign, as did the raids by Norsemen on the coasts of Europe. The king maintained friendly relations with Athelstan, king of the English. Viking civilization flourished at his court. On his death his lands were divided among his sons; Eric Bloodyaxe was made overlord, but another son, Haakon I, seized power.

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Harold I

 known as Harold Harefoot

(died March 17, 1040, Oxford, Eng.) King of England (1035–40). The illegitimate son of Canute the Great, he served as regent of England for his half brother Hardecanute, king of Denmark. In 1036 he murdered the royal claimant, Alfred the Aetheling, and proclaimed himself king. He fended off Welsh and Scottish invaders and was succeeded by Hardecanute.

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Harold I

surname Harefoot. died 1040, king of England (1037--40); son of Canute