Harald IV, also known as Harald Gille, arrived in Norway around 1127 to claim status as an illegitimate son of King Magnus Barefoot. By asserting this royal lineage, he successfully navigated the complexities of Norwegian succession, eventually securing his position as a monarch and initiating a significant era of political turbulence that characterized the mid-twelfth century.
Ascent to Power
Harald was born around 1102, likely in Ireland. He traveled to Norway and presented himself to King Sigurd the Crusader, claiming to be his half-brother. To validate his identity, he underwent an ordeal by fire. Sigurd acknowledged the claim on the condition that Harald would not demand governance rights during the lifetimes of the king or his son. Harald observed this arrangement until Sigurd died in 1130.
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Following the death of Sigurd, Harald convened a meeting at the Haugating, where he was elected ruler over half of Norway. For four years, a fragile peace existed between Harald and Magnus, who were required to split the kingdom. By 1134, tensions escalated into open warfare. After a defeat at the Battle at Fyrisleif, Harald fled to Denmark but later returned with a new military force. In January 1135, he captured Bergen, seized Magnus, and had him imprisoned and blinded.
Lineage and Assassination
Harald’s domestic life involved multiple alliances. He was married to Ingrid Ragnvaldsdotter, with whom he had a son, Inge I. He also had a previous union with Bjaðǫk, mother of Eystein II, and a relationship with Thora Guttormsdotter, who bore him a son, Sigurd II. He was also the father of Magnus Haraldsson. Harald’s reign ended on 14 December 1136, when he was murdered in Bergen by Sigurd Slembe, an individual claiming to be another illegitimate son of Magnus Barefoot.
Historical Context
The accession of Harald marked the beginning of a protracted period of civil wars in Norway, spanning from 1130 to 1217. These conflicts were driven by ambiguous succession laws, social tensions, and evolving relations between the church and the monarchy. The era eventually saw the formation of opposing factions, such as the Bagler and the Birkebeiner, which frequently centered their influence around royal descendants.
Fast facts
- Born: 1102
- Died: 14 December 1136
- Place of birth: Ireland
- Place of death: Bergen
- Reign: 1130-1136
- Spouse: Ingrid Ragnvaldsdotter
Questions readers ask
Was Harald IV the legitimate son of Magnus Barefoot?
He claimed to be the illegitimate son of Magnus Barefoot and was accepted as such by King Sigurd the Crusader after passing an ordeal by fire.
How did Harald IV die?
He was murdered in Bergen on 14 December 1136 by Sigurd Slembe.
