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Sven I DatskiyKing of Denmark
Country:
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Content:
- Early Life and Accession to the Danish Throne
- Viking Attacks and "Danegeld"
- Svend's Invasion and Conquest
- Ethelred's Flight and Svend's Triumph
- Sudden Death
Early Life and Accession to the Danish Throne
Svend Tveskæg, known as Svend Forkbeard, ascended to the Danish throne in 986 after leading a successful rebellion against his father, Harald Bluetooth. His ambition extended beyond Denmark's borders, and he set his sights on conquering England.
Viking Attacks and "Danegeld"
England had long been a victim of Viking raids, particularly from Danes and Normans. King Ethelred II, known as "the Unready," chose to appease the invaders rather than confront them militarily. From 991 to 1014, England paid over £40,000 in "Danegeld" to the Vikings.
Svend's Invasion and Conquest
Svend's desire to conquer England intensified after Ethelred ordered the massacre of Danish settlers in 1002, which included Svend's sister, Gunnhild. In 1013, Svend led a large-scale invasion, seeking revenge and the English throne. Despite receiving a payment of £36,000, Svend continued his campaign, devastating southeastern England.
Ethelred's Flight and Svend's Triumph
Ethelred, unable to resist Svend's forces, fled to Normandy in 1013. Svend was crowned King of England in February 1014, fulfilling his ambition to rule an empire stretching from Jutland to the British Isles.
Sudden Death
Svend's reign was brief and bittersweet. Just five weeks after his coronation, he unexpectedly died on February 3, 1014. His dream of a vast and powerful kingdom remained unrealized, leaving behind a legacy of war and intrigue in both Denmark and England.