I’m starting with the Battle of Fitjar which was fought in 961 between Norwegian royal factions for power over Norway. It eventually resulted in Harald Greycloak assuming power.

Unfortunately, when Harald Greycloak of Norway was assassinated, Harald Bluetooth of Denmark managed to assume control, if somewhat nominally.

(It doesn’t help that there are lots of Haralds in both country’s histories!)

Harald Bluetooth of Denmark’s rule over Norway was predominantly a formality, as the Norwegian local lords continued to maintain effective power. And eventually Norwegians Olav Tryggvason and Olav Haraldsson took advantage of the local tensions between the jarls (chieftains) to claim the throne.

Tryggvason reigned Norway from 995 – 1000 CE, followed by Haraldsson who reigned from 1015 – 1028 CE. Their reigns are characterised by their efforts to impose Christianity.

During the period between their reigns, Norway was ruled by the Danes. And then, again after Haraldsson’s demise, the Danes rule Norway under King Cnut.

To carry on with this see-saw of the overlordship of Norway, Magnus the Good (son of Haraldsson) was elected by the Norwegian aristocracy as their King.

Finally, the tables took an interesting turn when King Cnut of Denmark died, and the Danes lost control of England, and indeed Scandinavia. So, Magnus of Norway ended up ruling over Denmark until 1047, when Harald Hardrada took over after co-ruling in 1046.

I’m giddy with this toing and froing!