Magnus I of Norway
Magnus I (1024-October 25 1047), king of Norway from 1035 to 1047 and king of Denmark since 1042 after the death of his half brother Harthacanute. Surnamed the Good or the Noble, he was son of Saint Olaf. In the period 1028-1035 he is forced to leave Norway, but after the death of Knut den Mektige, he is called back by Norwegian noblemen, who are tired of being under Danish rule. After the deatch of Harthacanute, he is also made king of Denmark, despite Svend Estridsen who sails to Denmark demanding the throne. Svend is son of Estrid, sister of Knut den Mektige. There is great tormoil south of the Danish border, and in 1043 Magnus wins an important victory at Lyrskov Hede. This is said to be the victory that gave him his surname.His greatest rival, Svemd Estridsen, does not give up, however, and there are numerous conflicts. A settlement is made, making Svend Earl of Denmark. Magnus also has trouble in Norway, where his uncle, Harald Hardråde tries to conquer the Norwegian throne. In 1046, Magnus must allow Harald a part of the throne. In 1047, Svend Estridsen is driven out of Denmark by assistance of Anund Jakob of Sweden. Svend can not muster enough support, and is forced to flee to Scania. Magnus dies in 1047, falling from his horse. On his death bed, he proclaims Svend to inherit the Danish throne, and Harald the Norwegian throne. His body is brought to Norway, and he is buried in the cathedral in Trondheim where his father also is buried.
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Preceded by: Hardeknud | List of Danish monarchs | Succeeded by: Svend II Estridsen |
| Preceded by: Knut den Mektige | List of Norwegian monarchs | Succeeded by: Harald Hardråde |
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