haakon sigurdsson

Haakon Sigurdsson Jarl (d. 995) was the son of Sigurd Haakonsson, Jarl of Trndelag Haakon became earl after his father was killed by King Harald Greyhide's men in 963. He warred with King Harald for some time, until he was forced to flee to Denmark and Harald Bluetooth. In Denmark he conspired with Harald Bluetooth against Harald Greyhide. Harald Greyhide was killed in 876. After this, Haakon Jarl ruled Norway as a vassal of Harald Bluetooth, but he was in reality an independent ruler. Haakon was a strong believer in the old Norse gods, and when Harald Bluetooth attempted to force Christianity upon him, Haakon broke his alligiance to Denmark. A Danish invasion force was defeated at the battle of Hjrungavg. In 995, a quarrel broke out between Haakon and the Trnders just as Olav Trygvason, a desceandant of Harald Finehair arrived. Haakon quickly lost all support, and was killed by his own slave while hiding in the pig sty.

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