King harald v of norway biography

Harald became King upon the death of his father in January 1991. Because of the political vicissitudes of the Norwegian state, Harald became the first Norwegian-born monarch since Olav IV, who died in 1387. Harald’s reign has been marked by the general modernisation of the Norwegian royal house, an endeavour in which he has collaborated with Queen Sonja and the Crown Prince. The house has generally become more open to the public and media, while three more commoners have been accepted into the family, the late Ari Behn, Durek Verrett, and future Queen Crown Princess Mette-Marit.

The monarchy remains broadly very popular in Norway – a 2022 survey saw 78% of Norwegians express their support. This enduring popularity has no doubt been helped by King Harald’s much-acclaimed leadership during recent national crises, such as the New Year’s Day Storm, the July 2011 massacre and the Covid pandemic. The King will be hoping for a peaceful time as he sets about his 89th year.

Prince Harald was the first prince born in Norway in 567 years. Crown Prince Olav and Crown Princess Märtha also had two daughters, Princess Ragnhild and Princess Astrid, both born before the Prince. At the time, the Norwegian Constitution of 1814 stipulated that only male heirs could inherit the Throne. Thus, the birth of Prince Harald guaranteed the line of succession. The Constitution was amended in 1990, and it is now the oldest child, regardless of gender, who accedes to the Throne. In connection with the entry into force of the new amendment, a decision was taken to apply the previous rule to all children born prior to 1990.

Early life

The first three years of Prince Harald’s life were spent in the peaceful surroundings of Skaugum. However, this came to an abrupt end on 9 April 1940, when German troops invaded Norway. To avoid being taken into custody by the occupying forces, the Royal Family, the Government and most members of the Norwegian Storting escaped from Oslo by train.

When they reached Elverum, Crown Prince Olav and his family parted company. Crown Princess Märtha and the three children, Princess Ragnhild, Princess Astrid and Prince Harald, fled to safety across the border to Sweden. After several months in Sweden, the Crown Princess

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