Svein Knutsson

Svein Knutsson, also known as Sveinn Knútsson in Old Norse, was the offspring of Cnut the Great and Ælfgifu of Northampton. Born circa 1016, he was appointed alongside his mother as regents of Norway by his father, Cnut the Great, in 1030. Their governance was marked by the implementation of stringent taxes and laws, which were resented by the Norwegian populace, leading to their expulsion in 1034.

In the absence of Håkon Eiriksson, Svein and Ælfgifu assumed control of Norway, facing opposition from local nobles and the public. The era was characterized by increased Danish influence and resistance to the new regime. Svein’s victory at the Battle of Soknasund in 1033 was overshadowed by the eventual rise of Magnus, Olav Haraldsson’s son, who gained the support of the people, compelling Svein to retreat to Denmark where he died shortly thereafter in 1035.