Harald Hardrada: The Last Great Viking King Who Almost Conquered England
Harald Hardrada was the last great Viking king, a warrior whose life was filled with battles, betrayals, and conquest. From fighting in the elite Varangian Guard of the Byzantine Empire to claiming the throne of Norway and nearly taking England, Harald’s legacy is one of relentless ambition and fearless warfare.
In this blog, we will explore the life, battles, and legendary death of Harald Hardrada, the Viking warrior who came closer than anyone to restoring Viking rule over England.
Who Was Harald Hardrada?
Harald Sigurdsson, later known as Harald Hardrada (meaning "Harald the Hard Ruler"), was born in 1015 AD. He was the half-brother of King Olaf II of Norway, later known as Saint Olaf.
From a young age, Harald was thrown into war. After fighting in the Battle of Stiklestad (1030 AD), where his brother Olaf was killed, Harald was forced into exile. But instead of fading into obscurity, he began one of the most epic journeys in Viking history.
Harald’s Journey to the Byzantine Empire
After leaving Norway, Harald traveled to Kiev (modern-day Ukraine), where he served under Prince Yaroslav the Wise. However, Harald had even greater ambitions. He set his sights on Constantinople, the heart of the Byzantine Empire.
The Varangian Guard: Harald Becomes a Viking Mercenary
Harald joined the Varangian Guard, an elite force of Viking warriors who served as personal bodyguards to the Byzantine Emperor. During his time in the East, Harald:
- Fought in battles across the Mediterranean, North Africa, and the Middle East.
- Raided and plundered across the Black Sea and Sicily.
- Became one of the most feared warriors of the Byzantine Empire.
Harald earned immense wealth and fame, but he soon grew tired of serving. In true Viking fashion, he escaped Constantinople—possibly after a dispute with the emperor—and returned to Kiev, bringing with him treasure, battle experience, and an unstoppable ambition.
Harald Hardrada Becomes King of Norway
In 1046 AD, Harald returned to Scandinavia with one goal—become King of Norway. At the time, the throne was held by Magnus the Good, the son of Saint Olaf. Instead of fighting a costly war, Harald agreed to share power with Magnus.
However, Magnus died just a year later, leaving Harald as the undisputed ruler of Norway. As king, he ruled with an iron fist, crushing rebellions and expanding his influence. But Harald was not content with just Norway—he had his sights set on Denmark and England.
The Road to England: Harald’s Final Invasion
By 1066 AD, England was in turmoil. King Edward the Confessor had died, leaving the throne contested between:
- Harold Godwinson (Anglo-Saxon king of England).
- William the Conqueror (Duke of Normandy).
- Harald Hardrada (King of Norway, claiming the throne through Viking bloodlines).
Seeing an opportunity, Harald launched a massive Viking invasion of England with over 300 ships and 10,000 warriors.
The Battle of Fulford (September 20, 1066)
Harald’s forces crushed the English army at Fulford, taking control of northern England. It seemed like Viking rule was about to be restored.
The Battle of Stamford Bridge (September 25, 1066)
Harald’s victory was short-lived. Just days later, King Harold Godwinson’s army launched a surprise attack at Stamford Bridge.
Despite being caught off guard, Harald fought like a true Viking king, leading his warriors into battle. According to legend, one berserker Viking held the bridge against hundreds of English soldiers, slaying dozens before finally falling.
Harald himself fought ferociously until he was struck in the throat by an arrow, marking the end of the last great Viking invasion of England.
Harald Hardrada’s Legacy
Harald Hardrada’s death at Stamford Bridge marked the end of the Viking Age. Less than a month later, William the Conqueror defeated Harold Godwinson at the Battle of Hastings, changing English history forever.
Despite his defeat, Harald’s legend lives on:
- He is remembered as one of the greatest Viking warriors and kings.
- His time in the Varangian Guard and his daring battles made him a legend across Europe.
- His invasion of England in 1066 AD is seen as the Viking Age’s last stand.
Harald Hardrada in Popular Culture
Harald’s story has been told in:
- Norse sagas, like Heimskringla, written by Snorri Sturluson.
- The video game Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla, where he is referenced as a great Viking warrior.
- Numerous books, TV shows, and historical studies.
His life was one of endless conquest, fearless battles, and unbreakable will—the perfect embodiment of the Viking spirit.
Final Thoughts: The Last Viking King
Harald Hardrada was more than just a king—he was the last great Viking conqueror, a warrior who lived and died by the sword. His journey from exile to the throne, from Constantinople to England, proves that the Viking spirit of adventure and battle never fades.
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