Harold Harefoot: 1035-1040

Harthacnut, the son of Cnut and Emma of Normandy, was heir to his father's lands in both England and Scandinavia. Forced to defend his territories overseas, Harold Harefoot - his half-brother - was installed as regent of England during Harthacnut's absence from 1035-1037AD. In 1037AD, despite opposition from the queen and from the earl of Wessex, Harold was crowned king.

Harold was known as "Harefoot" - a reference to his speed and his skill at hunting. He died in 1040AD, at a time when Harthacnut was preparing an army to invade England and reclaim his crown. He was buried at Westminster abbey, but his body was subsequently exhumed, beheaded and discarded when Harthacnut assumed the throne.

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