# Harald IV of Norway

> King of Norway

**Wikidata**: [Q260543](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q260543)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harald_Gille)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/harald-iv-of-norway

## Summary
Harald IV of Norway, also known as Harald Gille, was a King of Norway from 1130 to 1136. He is notable for his role in the complex dynastic struggles of the 12th-century Norwegian Civil War, which shaped the country's monarchy and governance. His reign marked a period of shifting alliances and conflicts among rival claimants to the throne.

## Biography
- **Born**: circa 1102 (exact date and place unknown)
- **Nationality**: Norwegian
- **Known for**: Reign as King of Norway during the Norwegian Civil War
- **Employer(s)**: Monarch of the Kingdom of Norway
- **Field(s)**: Royalty and Governance

## Contributions
Harald IV's primary contribution was his involvement in the Norwegian Civil War, a series of conflicts that dominated 12th-century Norway. His claim to the throne, based on alleged lineage from King Magnus III, led to a period of political instability and power struggles. Though his reign was brief (1130–1136), it underscored the fragmented nature of Norwegian governance during this era, characterized by multiple kings and shifting alliances.

## FAQs
**What was Harald IV of Norway's role in the Norwegian Civil War?**  
Harald IV was a key figure in the civil war, asserting his claim to the throne against rival kings, notably Magnus IV. His reign exemplified the era's political turmoil, marked by alliances and conflicts that defined Norway's monarchy.

**How long did Harald IV rule Norway?**  
He reigned from 1130 until his death in 1136, a period of six years that saw continued strife among competing claimants.

**What is Harald IV's historical significance?**  
His reign highlighted the instability of the Norwegian monarchy during the 12th century, contributing to the eventual consolidation of power under the Gille dynasty and later rulers.

## Why They Matter
Harald IV of Norway's significance lies in his role within the broader context of the Norwegian Civil War. His claim to the throne and subsequent reign underscored the dynastic conflicts that shaped medieval Norway's political landscape. The power struggles of his era influenced the eventual stabilization of the monarchy, setting precedents for future governance. Without figures like Harald IV, the trajectory of Norway's unification and the development of its monarchical institutions might have differed, as these conflicts were instrumental in defining the structure of royal authority.

## Notable For
- **Dynastic Claims**: Asserted lineage from King Magnus III to legitimize his rule.
- **Civil War Involvement**: Played a central role in the 12th-century Norwegian Civil War.
- **Gille Dynasty**: His reign was part of the broader context of the Gille dynasty's influence in Norwegian history.
- **Brief Reign**: Ruled from 1130 to 1136, a period marked by political instability and conflict.

## Body

### Early Life and Lineage
Harald IV, also known as Harald Gille, was born circa 1102. His origins are tied to his claim of descent from King Magnus III, a lineage that became central to his bid for the Norwegian throne. This claim was crucial in legitimizing his rule during a period when multiple kings vied for power.

### Reign and the Norwegian Civil War
Harald IV's reign (1130–1136) was defined by his participation in the Norwegian Civil War, a series of conflicts that lasted from 1130 to 1240. His ascension to the throne followed the death of King Sigurd I and was contested by Magnus IV, leading to a division of the kingdom. Harald IV's rule was marked by alliances and conflicts, including a temporary agreement with Magnus IV that divided the realm. However, this arrangement did not last, and hostilities resumed, reflecting the era's political fragmentation.

### Death and Legacy
Harald IV died in 1136, though the exact circumstances of his death are not detailed in the provided sources. His brief reign left a legacy of political instability, contributing to the broader narrative of the Norwegian Civil War. The conflicts of this period ultimately influenced the development of the Norwegian monarchy, paving the way for future consolidations of power.

### Historical Context
The 12th-century Norwegian Civil War, in which Harald IV was a key player, was characterized by shifting alliances, multiple claimants to the throne, and a lack of centralized authority. Harald IV's reign exemplified these challenges, as he navigated the complex web of alliances and rivalries that defined the era. His involvement in the war underscored the need for a more stable monarchical structure, a goal that would be pursued by subsequent rulers.

### Genealogical Significance
As a member of the Gille dynasty, Harald IV's reign was part of a broader dynastic struggle that shaped medieval Norway. His claim to the throne, based on familial lineage, highlights the importance of genealogy in legitimizing royal authority during this period. The Gille dynasty's influence, including Harald IV's role, played a part in the eventual stabilization of the Norwegian monarchy.

## References

1. The Peerage
2. [Source](https://nbl.snl.no/Harald_4_Gille)
3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
4. Sejm-Wielki.pl