The youngest son of King Harald Fairhair and Thora Mosterstang secured his position as the monarch of Norway by promising to renounce the taxation rights previously held by his father over inherited land. This political maneuver effectively galvanized the Norwegian landowners, ultimately forcing his half-brother, Eric Bloodaxe, to abandon his claim to the throne and flee the country.
Early Life and Foreign Influence
Born in Hordaland in 920, the young prince was sent to the court of King Athelstan of England to ensure his safety. Throughout this period, he was fostered by the English king, earning the nickname Adalsteinfostre. It was during his time at the English court that he was introduced to Christianity, a faith he later attempted to bring to his own people. By the time news of his father's death arrived, Athelstan provided him with the necessary naval support and manpower to challenge Eric Bloodaxe.
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His reign was defined by frequent conflict against the sons of Eric Bloodaxe. In 953, he triumphed at the Battle of Avaldsnes, which claimed the life of Guttorm. Two years later, at the Battle of Rastarkalv near Frei, he utilized a deceptive tactic by spreading ten military standards along a ridge to exaggerate the size of his forces, forcing the Danish-supported invaders to retreat. He is also credited with implementing the leiðangr naval system, likely inspired by the maritime organization he witnessed in England.
The Final Conflict and Legacy
In 961, the sons of Eric Bloodaxe launched a surprise attack on the king at his residence in Fitjar. Although he achieved a final military victory, he sustained a mortal wound when an arrow pierced his arm. He died shortly after the battle and was laid to rest in a burial mound at Seim in the present-day Alver Municipality. His death marked the transition to the rule of Harald Greycloak, and his life was commemorated by the poet Eyvindr skáldaspillir in the skaldic work Hákonarmál.
Fast facts
- Born: 0920, Hordaland
- Died: 0961, Battle of Fitjar
- Reign: 933-961
- Religion: Old Norse religion
- Burial site: Seim
- Parents: Harald Fairhair and Thora Mosterstang
Questions readers ask
What military tactics did Haakon use to win the Battle of Rastarkalv?
He placed ten standards along a ridge to create the illusion of a larger army, successfully tricking his enemies into believing they were significantly outnumbered.
Where is the king buried?
He is buried in a mound known as Håkonshaugen, located in the village of Seim in Vestland county.
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