Harold Harefoot

Harold I (Harefoot) (c.1016-1040), king of England (1035-1040), was the son of king Canute by his first wife, Ælgifu; and succeeded his father over the opposition of his half-brother, Harthacanute, the issue of Canute’s second marriage. Although agreeing to share the kingdom with Harthacanute, within 2 years Harold was effectively in control of all England. He died in 1040, sparing Harthacanute the trouble of an invasion.